Charles L. Balke

Charles L. "Verne" Balke, 82, Rockford, died at 1:39 p.m. on Thursday, December 23, 2010 in his home surrounded by his family. Born June 16, 1928 in Edgerton, WI, son of Melvin and Marie Slagg Balke. Rockford resident for the past 50 years. Married Betty M. Meeker in Edgerton on March 27, 1954. Spent 3 years stationed in Alaska with the United States Air Force. He was in the paint business for over 50 years, retiring from Adamson-Johnson as sales manager. Active member of Court Street United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir for 50 years. Member of their Men's Club and was very involved with their Thanksgiving Dinners for many years. He had donated over 10 gallons of blood through the Northern Illinois Blood Center. He bowled in his earlier years, enjoyed fishing and loved many sports and also was a devoted Green Bay Packer fan. Charles was a very generous man and he and his wife always opened their home to anyone who needed it. They were "supportive parents" to many extra children through the years and today many of them are still part of the Balke family. Charles had a deep love for others and was completely devoted to his family, always taking special pride in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Survivors include his wife, Betty; children, Jean Rowland, Jane Scharwath, Dwayne (Peggy) Balke, Gail (Steve) Farra and Lisa (John) Vaughan; 16 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; sisters, Dona (Andy) Ray and Jeannie (Keith) Zeilinger; numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents; son, Steven Balke; brothers, Richard, Roberts and Donald Balke and sister, Bonnibel Johnson. A special thanks is extended to OSF St. Anthony Hospice for their care and support of Charles as well as to the Court Street United Methodist Church Choir for all of their support.A memorial service will be held at 2p.m. on Thursday, December 30, 2010 in Court Street United Methodist Church with Rev. Keith Kelsey-Powell officiating. Visitation from 12:30 p.m. until time of the service at the church. Private family burial in North Burritt Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Paul Waters Music Fund, c/o Court Street United Methodist Church. Express condolences and share memories at www.fitzgerasldfh.com.