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Marguerite Balcavage Obituary
July 14, 2008
Mrs. Marguerite M. Balcavage, 84, of Pottsville, formerly of Minersville, passed away Monday at Schuylkill Center. Born in Cannes, France, on April 6, 1924, she was a daughter of the late Antoine and Anne Chotti Peyzaret. Her husband, Paul, passed away in 1978. She was a member of Emanuel United Church of Christ, Minersville, and the Retired Nurses Association. She was employed at Allied Chemical as a quality control supervisor before retiring. She attended the University of Algiers, majoring in chemistry, and also two years of medi- cal school in France. She was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Danielle Jacqueline Derfler, and a brother, Jean Peyzaret. Surviving are two daughters, Monique Derfler, wife of John Derfler, Lebanon, and Jacqueline Greis, wife of Paul Greis, Key West, Fla.; a son, Paul Balcavage, husband of Terry Balcavage, Easton; eight grandchildren, Jennifer Smith, Ryan Derfler, Daren Derfler, Willie Madrigal, Maggie Madrigal, Joesph Thompson, Krista Flowers and her angel, Danielle. She also had seven great-grandchildren. Marguerite loved and was very proud of her family and friends. She is best remembered for her French cooking, intimate conversations and time she spent playing cards with her family and friends. She enjoyed reading, watching movies and sending e-mails to her family and friends around the world. She considered herself blessed to maintain a strong relationship with her French family and visited them many times throughout her life, most recently in September 2007 with her children and their spouses. Although Marguerite was from France, she considered herself an American and became a U.S. citizen in 1956. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc., Minersville, with the Rev. Rick Kantner officiating. Friends may call Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m. and Monday from 7 to 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Mount Peace Cemetery, Branch Township. Sign the guest book at republicanherald.com
Memories and Condolences
for Marguerite Balcavage
Sponsored by Monique Anne Derfler.
68 Entries
Monique Derfler
May 27, 2015
Missing you so much
Monique Derfler
November 13, 2009
Hi there Mom - I miss you so very much - that chapter in my life has been completed and although I'm sad as I reflect back I know that I've been blessed. . . . I'm so glad you are no longer in pain . . . . I love you so much! Monique - the middle child (~;
Jacquie Greis
September 20, 2008
Mom.....I miss you so much. I know that you needed to go rest and be with our Maker and I thank you for everything you did for me as I would not be the person I am today without you. I only hope and pray that I can do the same for my 2. Please continue to guide me in making the right decisions when it comes to those 2.......thank you so much for everything you did for me, you are an awesome Mom and I miss you so very much. I hope Danielle is not wearing you out up there. Looking forward to our reunion.......all my love.....the baby.
Mari Beth Nye
August 27, 2008
Monique & Jack, I am so sorry for your loss. I have heard so many stories of your mother I know you will miss her terribly. Blessings and much love
Mari Beth
Jo Ann Kerst
August 15, 2008
Monique and family, I am so sorry to hear of your Mother's passing. I have enjoyed reading the notes in her Guest Book and "getting to know her". What a delightful mom you had. It is such a beautiful thought that she and Danielle are now together. I'll be thinking of you with special thought and prayers and a big hug.
brenda woiski
August 15, 2008
Monique, Jack and family,
I have so many memories of your mother I wouldn't even know where to begin. I am so glad I got to spend time with her in the nf. She still made me laugh when she was in pain!
She was such an interesting woman and human being! Your were truly blessed to have such a great mother. I can tell you from experience they never leave you, there will always be her presence in your life.
Love Ya
Brenda, Natasha and Daniella
Ann Lorelli
August 15, 2008
She blessed your life as you have blessed hers. Your memories will be your comfort in time. Please accept my sincere sympathy.
Annette (Walker)Blakley
August 11, 2008
Dear Paul,Monique, & Jackie, and Family,
I was so sorry to hear of your Mom's passing. It is so very hard to loose someone you love,and I pray the Lord will send his angels down to protect and comfort you. I have so many memories of your Mom, and ya'll from when we were kids, and those memories will live on for ever.
You and your families are in my prayers and in our thoughts and hearts.
Karen Wallace
August 5, 2008
Monique, Jack and family. We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Your mother was a special woman with great courage and strength. She was loved by so many. She is now with your beautiful daughter in a place free from pain and heartache. The care you gave her is a reflection of the love she gave to you. She was so proud of you all. Karen, Richard, Ian and Kellie
Michelle Perry [McGee]
August 1, 2008
Jacquie, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your precious mom. I don't know if you remember me. I am Michelle McGee now Perry. I was closer in age to Monique (please give her my email address). My mom is Sue. We moved to Roswell from Albuquerque. Your mom and you all came to visit us there. I loved your mom and have wondered all of these years where you all were. I remember you mother reading my tea leaves but most of all I remember how nice she was to everyone and how she loved her family. Please tell Monique and Paul too, how sorry I am for their loss. Maggie was a wonderful person. I am so sorry so many years have past not connecting to you and your family. I have searched the internet several times over the years and never found you. I am so sorry I had to find your family again through your mom's passing. I can still see her smiling face and hear her words of wisdom. She was so much funn too! You are in my thoughts and prayers. Be blessed. Michelle, my cell . . . . .
Jacquie Greis
July 29, 2008
Hi Mom....thanks for getting me back to Key West safe and sound.....I miss you so!!!!!! but I know I cannot be selfish and that you are now experiencing such wonderful bliss after all the hell you went thru on earth.....not to mention all the fun you are having with Danielle, (just don't get in too much trouble) and you are with your ZinaPina.....please do your best to come and see me like you did the other night, I will need a hug.......Oh Mom.....I miss you! May the Lord watch between you and me while we are absent, one from the other....I love you, Jacquie
Judy Hutsko
July 26, 2008
Maggie, When I close my eyes and think of you this is what I want to remember. Your smilling face and above your laughter saying in that distinct accent that was yours alone "Behave Joodeee". I never laughed as much as I did on our trip to Wildwood. You,Gerry and me.God what fun we had that week. We really kept those fireman jumping. This is the way I choose to remember you Mag untill we meet again. Living,Loving,Laughing. You and Gerry stay out of trouble up there till I get there. I know Danielle will be making sure you behave. See Ya Frenchie. Your friend Pet
Jacquie Monique, Paul & Families my deepest condolences for your loss.
Norma Farabaugh-Vieli
July 22, 2008
Monique,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time, take care, Love Norma
Maureen & C. Therese Murphy
July 22, 2008
Monique, Jacqui, & Paul,
We were so sorry to learn of the loss of your dear mother. Hopefully, your wonderful memories of her will sustain you during this sad time. We will remember your family in our prayers.
Marilyn Minder
July 21, 2008
Jacquie, Monique, Paul & Families: I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom. She was such a great person and I have so many memories of her. I'm sorry I didn't make it up to the services but you all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sherry Wiest
July 21, 2008
Monique and Family, I am so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Gayla, Clint, Caitlyn & Kristen Fitzpatrick / Verda Walker
July 20, 2008
Jacquie, Monique, Paul & Families:
We are so sorry to hear of Maggie's passing.
May God wrap His arms around all of you and comfort you in this time of need.
We are thinking of you and praying for you.
Jacquie, I can't be there in person, but I am with you in mind and spirit. I love you....
I will miss receiving her e-mails and her uplifting spirit she had about her.
May God Bless you all.....
Wolfie
July 20, 2008
Derfie and Family,
When I think of Meme, I smile through tears of thankfulness as fond memories of her fierce devotion to family, quick wit, intelligence, and laughter are recalled. Words cannot assuage the grief of a heavy heart. Through the comfort of family and friends, my hope is the heaviness is easier to bear. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Remember, whatever you need ... whenever you need it. Love ya, Mon Aimee!
Ron,Ann,Ryan,Kelsey & Cole Weachock
July 20, 2008
Dear Jacquie, Monique and Paul,
We are very sorry for the loss of your mom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Erin Smith (now Shrimp)
July 19, 2008
Hi Family,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Mimi. I remember Mimi and all the times she made me laugh. I loved her accent and how head strong she was about things. I will be seeing you guys Sunday evening at the funeral home and my prayers are always with you. Now Danielle will have her Mimi with her in Heaven.
Love Always--Erin
Lee & Larry Vaniver
July 19, 2008
I remember the first time I met your mom and how much she touched my heart with her love for her family. It is difficult when our parents pass because it brings to light the realization that for each of us God has a plan and that his plan for us on earth becomes shorter with each passing day. He leaves behind all of those precious memories of those loved ones that have gone before us so that we don't ever forget the joy that they created in our lives. My prayers and thoughts are with you as you say goodbye to your mom.
Elly Brown Rathonyi
July 18, 2008
Dear Family! I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. I can remember Mimi from when I was a child, visiting your home in Montgomery. She made wonderful food, (I can remember her yummy spinach dip!) and was a kind and comforting presence. I wish you all peace during this difficult time. My prayers are with you and Mimi!
Linda Jester
July 18, 2008
Monique, Jacqueline, Paul and family:
My heart is heavy with sorrow for your loss. Monique, you have become such a special person in my life and I will continue to pray for you and your family. There is comfort in knowing that those we have lost are craddled with God's love and by each other. I will light some candles this weekend and say a special prayer for your family ... with love.
lori miller (now l'armand!)
July 17, 2008
greetings from delaware derfler family....
i'm so sorry to hear the news.... mimi, right? i can't imagine how tough this time is for you guys and my thoughts are really with you.... as they always are. i know danielle and mimi will have a lot of catching up to do.......but that doesnt make it easier here.
with much love....
Jenny Mckernan
July 17, 2008
Dear Jacquie,
I am truly sorry about your loss. I know that she is now your guardian angel that is taking care of you from heaven. She now has Danielle in her arms and together they will watch over your family. We will have you in our prayers. I love you!
Jenny, Donnie and Isy Mckernan
Jennifer Krynock
July 17, 2008
Monique and Family,
I am so sorry about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
JO ANN BUTCHER
July 17, 2008
Dear Derfler Family,
Sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. I have you in my prayers.
JoAnn
JO ANN BUTCHER
July 17, 2008
Dear Derfler Family,
I am so sorry to hear about the lost of Margerite. I have you in my prayers. Love JoAnn
Mary Lou Bainbridge
July 17, 2008
Paul, Monique and Jacqui,
I am so glad I got to see you Mom a few weeks ago. We talked for hours....we reminised about everything from the past and caught up on everything we missed. She told me all about the three of you and your families and about how she loved each and everyone of you differently - but the same. She was looking forward to getting out on July 1st and going to visit Jacqui. I thought she looked beautiful, and so young, she was very happy that day, and so proud of all of you. I know she was glad to see me and my Mom and I am so thankful to God that I did get to spend that time with her. She is a very special person and I will always remember how close I was with her years ago. I will pray for you all. Take comfort in the fact that she is with Danielle. I'm sure they are both very happy now. Love, Mary Lou & Betty
Sharon Miller
July 17, 2008
Monique, Jack, and family,
I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your Mother. This is such a difficult time. I think of you folks all the time - and hope to see you one day. I will be remembering you in thoughts and prayers. The obituary was very informative and was a tribute to both your Mother and to Danielle. Love, Sharon Miller
Ken & Sandy Jones
July 17, 2008
Dear Monique and Jack and Family,
Ken and I wish to express our sympathy at the loss of your dear mother. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. With love,
Matthew Cox
July 17, 2008
Derflers,
I'm sorry to hear about your loss. I have many memories that won't soon fade about Mimi: our trip to the Olive Garden in Reading, her funny stories, the things she gave up for Lent, and her warm smile.You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Gerry Aumiller
July 17, 2008
Monique, Jack & Family--
Your Mom left a great legacy--a family that was proud of her--and a family of which she could be proud. You're in our thoughts & prayers! Darlis & Gerry
Randy, Pam, Ryan, Evan Burkart
July 17, 2008
Monique, Jacquie and Paul
She was always so very proud of the three of you - she'll be smiling down on you forever.
Jeannie Hanna
July 17, 2008
Monique and Family,
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to each one of you. I know from talking with Monique how very special your mom and grandmother was to each one of you. Treasure the special times and memories! My thoughts and prayers will be with you during this time of loss. With love,
Diana Loraschi
July 17, 2008
Dear Monique and family,
I am sorry to hear about your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Recreation Staff of Schuylkill Center Christa,Rose,Martha,Helen,Kolleen
July 17, 2008
We all send our love & appreciation for you allowing us to be a small part of this wonderful ladies life!!!!
Netta Wilson
July 17, 2008
Dear Monique and Jacquie,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I enjoyed getting mail from your mother over the years.
Love Netta
Shari Mueller
July 17, 2008
Dear Monique, Jack and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your Mom's passing. I know this is such a difficult time. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Karen and Ron Nee
July 17, 2008
To Monique and Family: Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to each of you in this very difficult time... our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dave Merkt
July 17, 2008
Monique and family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your Mom and Grandmother! Although it's very difficult saying goodbye, please take comfort that she is no longer suffering. We will keep your family in our prayers!
Jayne Smith
July 17, 2008
Jacquie,
I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. Your mother was such a fine person. May your memories of her help you through this difficult time.
With love and sympathy
Jayne (Stoddard) Smith
Linda (Eichenberg) and Tom Smith
July 16, 2008
Dear Monique and family,
We just shared our heartaches over the past few years at the pig roast on 7/12. I was sorry to read that your Mom had passed away. But, she will never leave your heart and memories. You, Paul, and your families will be in our thoughts and prayers in the difficult days ahead. With deepest sympathy,
Stacey, Chad & Dylan Strokelitus
July 16, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I loved visiting Maggie when I was up at the Schuylkill Center and she was always so much fun to be around. I know that she is smiling down on all of us and is so proud of her family and friends.
Connie & Ned Thomas (Wiyda) Heffner
July 16, 2008
Monique, Jackie, Paul and Families,
So sorry to hear about your Mother's passing. We move away, lose touch and rarely see each other, but I have so many memories of you all. Wonderful memories that always make me smile, Aunt Mag was a kind, thoughtful, helpful woman with so much love for everyone, especially her family. She will be missed beyond words, but she will remain a part of us through all those great memories. You are in our thoughts now and always.
Joe Brahler
July 16, 2008
Jaquie, I'm sorry for the loss of your mother.
Chris Shirey
July 16, 2008
Dear Monique and family,
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. We all know that she is in a better place, and with Danielle. You and your family will remain in our prayers.
Michelle (Craig) McManus
July 16, 2008
Dear Monique, Jacqui, and families,
I was so saddened by the news of your Mom's death. She was such a wonderful woman, and a strong woman, as are both of you. May thoughts of your Mother's love carry you through this time of sorrow.
All of you, your spouses and children, are in my thoughts and prayers.
Janine Genova
July 16, 2008
Although we had never met, we prayed for each other often. You will be missed but everyone in heaven is looking forward to seeing you again.
Mike & Ginny Mike Watcher's
July 16, 2008
Dear Monique,Jacquie and family: It was our pleasure to know your mom in her past "driving" years. She was always one of our favorite customers, and someone you just loved to talk with and get to know better. Our condolences to you all in your very sad loss.
Kathy McGrath
July 16, 2008
Monique and family,
Please know that our prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Kathy and Mike McGrath
Carolyn (Brennan) Killian
July 16, 2008
Jacquie, Monique,
God bless you and your Families. I am very sorry to hear such sad news and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Tereica (Gowens) Gonzales
July 16, 2008
Paul, Monique, Jackie,
Many years have passed since you all left Albuquerque, many changes in your lives. The one thing you can always count on is you have an extended family here. We loved your mom and all of you as family, we have so many great and fun memories of our childhood that only we can share. You know your mom she would only want you to smile and remember her for the loving person she was and to know that she is still with you in your heart and memories. Your loss is shared across the miles, we will always love your mom and each of you.
With great sorrow and much love,
Tereica, Pam, Bobby, Jean
rachael (donlen)bowers
July 16, 2008
To jacqui, moniquc, and family,
I am so very sorry for the loss of your mom. i finally met the women who was a big part of my past and who wanted to take me in when i was a baby, when god decided to take her home. i wish i had more time with her to hear her stories of you two and my parents growing up. i could sit and talk with her for hours. i always tried to stop in and see her when i was working, she would greet me with a big smile and give me a hug and kiss and tell me she loves me. she was a wonderful women and will be deeply missed by all. you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
all my love,
rachael bowers
Susan Croll
July 16, 2008
Dear Monique,
Keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers as you travel this difficult life path.
July 16, 2008
I knew your Mom for a few years while delivering her meals on wheels. She was my last stop & I would always spend some time with her, just chatting. She spoke lovingly of all her family, she was so proud of you and she adored you. She shared many memories of her childhood and family stories. She loved her grand doggies too. You were more than children to her, you were her best friends as well.
I always left your Mom's home with a smile on my face & my heart. She was a wonderful, caring, generous woman who will be sadly missed.
With deepest sympathy,
Joan Baxter
Meals on Wheels
July 16, 2008
SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL
MARY ANN HUDOCK (MT TOP, PA)
Colleen Kramer
July 16, 2008
Deepest condolences. I loved Maggie as though she were "my own". So many memories of her and my own mother, and the laughter they shared.
Carol RACZKA
July 16, 2008
Dear Monique and family, So very sorry about the loss of your beloved Mom. I share your pain when I lost my great mother. Try to hold on to the great memories and treasure them in you heart forever. She's looking down and she will protect all of you. Your are our thoughts and prayers. If we can do anything for your family during this sad time in your life, don't hesitate to ask. We love you and are here for you. All our love, Tommy, Carol, and Megan Raczka God bless all of you.CaC
Lisa McClure
July 16, 2008
Monique,Jacquie,Paul, Ryan, Darin,Maggie, and Willie,
and all of Maggie's family,
Maggie was an extended family member of mine, through the years, she has gotten to know my mom, husband, children,aunts, and even friends of mine. She has met my brother, and knows my family skeletons in and outside the closet. When my mother died last year-Maggie took her place in some respects. I could talk to Maggie and tell her anything at all. She loved me unconditionally-like she loved you all. She was such a great lady...like my mom. Things were black or white-never gray. She thought so much of my husband and kids-made cookies for them and just was so great and I can't even begin to tell you how I am going to miss her. Sometimes I just have to wonder why life is the way it is...but then I have to realize how blessed I was to have had Maggie come into my life like she did, and to have had her become my friend and to have her so close for so many years. Life is good and so was the time we shared. I will miss and love her forever. I still would like to know what I said to her in French in her dream that Thursday before she passed. She told me that day she was going to die and that she was ready. She knew and was at peace. Know this and find comfort in the fact that she was ready-even though we were and are not ready to let her go. We will keep her memories alive because a great lady like that can NEVER be forgotten.
Lisa McClure
Richard MacCready
July 15, 2008
Jacquie and the rest of the Balcavage family, my deepest sympathies on your loss.
MARY ELLEN CAMPION
July 15, 2008
My Dear Maggie: I went to see your smiling face this morning only to find out God had already taken you to Heaven the previous day.
I am so proud to have had you as a Friend. In the last two weeks, we shared wonderful memories of Allied. I thank God for all your kindness while at Allied. I know you are already looking down, from heaven, on your beloved Family.
To Maggie's Family: I am so sorry for your loss. Your Mother was so very proud of each and every one of you! She was such a special person.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. May God help ease your sorrow.
With Love,
Mary Ellen Campion
Carl McAloose
July 15, 2008
Monique, Jacquie and Families:
So very sorry to learn that your mom has passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Kathy Slifka Bobbs
July 15, 2008
Marguerite has left me with such fun and wonderful memories while working with her at Allied. You were so blessed to have such a beautiful mother. Her smile will live in my memories. Know you are in our prayers.
Audrey Brahler
July 15, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Judy
July 15, 2008
Monique,
I'm so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. Even though I can't be with you in person, I am with you in heart and mind. I loved your mom so much - what a beautiful woman, both inside and out. My love and sympathies to Jack, Ryan & Darren and to Jacqui and Paul and their families. Please take comfort knowing she is with Danielle, the angel, and is in very good hands. Mimi is happy and at peace. I know this to be true...will share this with you when we speak.
All my love,
Cyndi Carson
July 15, 2008
Jacquie: I feel your pain. It's such a great loss. I'm here if you need anything. I love you and your family.
Roger Mort
July 15, 2008
Remembered by the QA Lab at Allied Signal/Honeywell - Pottsville
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