Michael C. Balsley Obituary

I will never forget. Sending love to the family. <3

Hello,
We realize that we are very late to express our deepest condolences, but we wanted to let your family and friends know that we will be sending Care Packages to deployed troops this month and several of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo and hometown of Michael C. Balsley US Army Private 1st Class.

We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, their families and friends and others who support our mission.

We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.

Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

I go to this page somewhat quite often but this is my first post. I think about you daily and wonder how your life would have turned out.

Once in a while I take a drive down Victory Drive and think about the memories there. That street has changed but in a lot of ways, it's still the same.

Please take a special trip to Mom and tell her how much you love her. I'm sure she'd like that. God bless.

Mikey, I went by your memorial brick at the John Wayne birthplace on January 25 (2020) and left a small American flag and flower. On Memorial Day this year, I again placed a small flag and flower there. This year I am remembering both you and your daddy. I deeply appreciate your service to our country and your sacrifice to keep us free. With love, Mom Diane Balsley.

Michael I told your parents I would never forget what your family sacrificed. I told your mom my family would never forget who you were. You are the face my family sees when a hero is mentioned. Bev your no longer here but I will continue to remember for as long as I'm still on this earth. I'm glad you are all together now! I'm glad you all have peace.

Michael I told your parents I would never forget what your family sacrificed. I told your mom my family would never forget who you were. You are the face my family sees when a hero is mentioned. Bev your no longer here but I will continue to remember for as long as Im still on this earth. Im glad you are all together now! Im glad you all have peace.

Michael I told your parents I would never forget what your family sacrificed. I told your mom my family would never forget who you were. You are the face my family sees when a hero is mentioned. Bev your no longer here but I will continue to remember for as long as Im still on this earth. Im glad you are all together now! Im glad you all have peace.

Hey Mikey.

It's coming up on Thanksgiving (and soon, Christmas). I will be going to your stepbrother's house (Joel). I'm sure you remember him from the parties he used to have and the car club stuff (he drove the blue El Camino). I am missing your dad this year. I know you are with him and you two are bosom buddies again. Take care of each other. Love you lots. Give you dad a hug for me.

Diane

Mikey, your daddy went to be with you on Friday. Take good care of him. Now you two can be in heaven and continue your adventures together.

Diane

This ones for you, Kid.

Yes, I realize that Memorial Day isn't until next week. Well, actually it's the 30th. if you want to get real about it. However, you're in my head today. .........................

I found a photo that you might enjoy.......................

Me and you are on our way up to Rachael's, just turned off at the Nursery onto that long stretch of fields. Only all that's all gone now. It's all houses, We'er almost to the Grade now. I've got my earphones on and have "Runnin' On Empty" really going. I like the version with the Sessions with him. That's the original band. You'll recognize Lee Skylar playing bass. "Lookin' out at the road rushing under my wheels, going by like so many summer fields ago". I used to do this all the time, Mikey. Me on my Pan. Only this time you're with me on a Knucklehead weaving in and out like Dennis Hopper behind me. Rachael used to beg me to stay up there with her. Quit my job and find something up there. She asked once if I have ever found what I have been looking for. Couldn't answer her. I can now though. Oh, how I wish that you were here to share this with me. Come see me tonight ?

Ol' Dollar
.

"Yeah, there's a storm a threatin' but I'm alive today". I absolutely love the lead in to that song. Maybe it's Lisa Fisher or Keith playing open E flat. Morning Mikey. Found another real cool song too, "Seven Turns" , Allman Bros. I need to get ready. Have to go to V.A. this morning for a followup for my throat. I lite up again. No big deal, right ? Ain't how you look, it's what ya got under the hood. Me and you, Kid.................

I guess I'm just going down memory lane again. I got playing around in my computer trying to find another way to download some songs. It'll be Spring again soon and I'll be up the hill in the garage and I'll want some "new"music to listen to. There is a independent radio station down in Murray that plays a lot of off-wall songs like KSAN did back in the 60s and 70's. Called it "underground" back then . Played stuff from that "weird" woman from Texas named Janis and that guitar player
named Jimmy. LOL !!
I got to listening to "18 Wheels And A Dozen Roses". And I have gone out to find America with a new dream. Mikey, it's working too. Only thing is, you're not with me. Oh, mentally and emotionally you are, just not physically.

Good Afternoon, my man. Still snowing this morning. The amount of snow we have had has broken the record set in 1896. The winter I came here was impressive to be sure but then the only time I saw any snow was Ft. Dix ans Ft. Carson. I was praying for Viet Nam by that time. Got my wish for sure. There's maybe 3 foot of snow on the hill. Spring is right around the corner and I'm ready. Last Tuesday was my birthday. 29 years of Sobriety. And I got the cast taken of my leg too. I had in-home therapy to help me with the Vertigo and it really worked. I didn't know what it was and I kept falling down for no reason. A couple of times it was so bad I couldn't see across the room. Yeah. Scared me bad. Thought I was dying or something. Kind of funny if you think about it. I spent thousands of dollars trying to get that "perfect high" that we all look for and now I can't even bear to be around those who drink at all. Alcohol to get high, Cocaine and weed to calm down some and it just goes on and on. God and Alcoholics Anonymous saved my life. Oh. And a little bit of guts too !! LOL I remember giving Mark a gold plated 5 year chip years ago. He told me that one day I'd be getting it back, that it was and is the ultimate re-cycling program. Being sober is a trip. It's us against "Normies". They don't understand Alcoholics and how it works and we don't understand what they call a "normal life".
Got a few projects lined up in the Spring. Mainly in the garage. Re-arrange some of the stuff. I'd like to be able to park my Grand Am and the John Deere side by side and do something about the wood rack. Look kind of un-sightly so to speak. If you're not to busy and you come and give me a hand ? I'll let you drive my John Deere too.
Love ya......... Ol' Dollar

I can't believe it has been 12 years since you have been gone. Just want to let you know that I am thinking of you today & that you will never be forgotten. God Bless You.

Good Morning, Kid. It's been snowing quite a bit the last few days with some wind. It's been a mess on the Interstate with the blowing snow and of course there's been ice as well.
I wanted to go out for dinner tonight but it's just too cold. So I'll do the "Missing Man" here in the dinning room with some Mexican sort of dinner. I truly miss you, Mike. Young men go to war and some don't come home. It's the nature of things, I guess. One of the things that I have learned in life, is that, we don't own our children. And that they are only here for a short time.
Years ago in a pizza place in Albany, California , I was sitting there by the juke box and a song played. It was "Were Have All The Flowers Gone" ? I had never heard it before. I was maybe 13 - 14 and for some reason it sounded so ominous, like a warning of some kind to me. Like, a brief look into the future. And again, at the airport when you were walking up the ramp and I yelled like I did to you. Come see me tonight ?

Hey Kid. Been snowing for a couple of days. There is maybe two feet of snow out there these morning. Cold too with a wind chill at ten below. I'm glad that the cats are warm. Going to watch the Play-Offs in a couple of hours and that ought to be fun. Watched the video again this morning. I had a terrible time remembering the name of the thing. But this time I saved it and on the 25th I'll send it to you. Love ya, man...........

Hi Mikey....Thinking of you & your mom today as I got to see Jimmie & the family at the cemetary yesterday. Your niece is getting so big....and so beautiful. It was a nice visit but not long enough....wanted to go before the rain started again. Hopefully gonna see them again soon & for a longer time. Think of you both often....miss your mom so much.

Good Morning, Mickey. Finally snowing. Been snowing all night. Maybe 6 -7 inches right now. Cats don't like it, that's a fact. Kool Kat finally came down from the garage about 10:00 for breakfast. Now that their beds are heated we don't see too much of them in the early morning. LOL His belly was dragging in the snow.
I think about you all the time. The world was a much better place with you in it...........
Ol' Dollar

Hey my man. Get's getting colder just a little more each day now. Diane went out and got me some new speakers for my computer and I'm going down memory lane, I guess. I was listening to different versions of "Gimme Shelter". Wide range of sound. My favorite is when they played in Peking. Very very cool. I still remember the day when you and I were blasting out, "Dead Flowers" from that "Stripped-Live" CD that you had bought for me and powers that be got upset because it was too loud or something. Maybe I'll write a bit more and try my hand at "Silver Stallion" by Waylon. I love my horses and all, the cancer that Dollar has is about all cleared up. But, I would have liked to have got you and I a silver or grey gelding and named him Mikey. That song reminds me of you.
Got some new electric beds for the cats for this winter. Never going to see them again once they find them. Up high and out of the cold draft from the little door. I mean, would you want to climb out of a nice warm bed to go outside to eat ? Yeah. Diane always calls them if they aren't out on the deck in the morning. The food is all day except if the raccoons come around. I hate to do it but the raccoons don't stay around very long. Love my cats. Going into Des Moines tomorrow morning to Camp Dodge for Christmas Tree decorating thing. There is a real big support Group there at the National Guard post. I used to be involved in it because of Operation Mom meant to me but all the support groups aren't ever going to bring you back.. So, I have my own little thing up here on the hill. I have a brand new American Flag and pole, I might add, compliments of the National Guard. The Support Group came up here and put a new pole and everything in for me. Last year we had a real bad storm and the wind bent the pole. I couldn't get it out because of the concrete base. These guys pulled everything out and it all back together. And yes, I still hang the "Stars and Bars" on legal holidays as well. Be surprised about the amount of people who slow down, yell and wave if I'm out there on my tractor. See, St. Charles Road is a main road into Winterset and a whole lot of bikers like to ride from I-35 into Winterset to this bar in town. A lot of traffic out there on the weekends.
Maybe I'll go play some "Silver Stallion" on my guitar, Kid. And maybe I won't cry. I miss you, boy. Remember that day in SFO when you were walking away to the ramp and I yelled as load as I could, "you, come back to me, boy ! You hear ?" But, you and I, we got over, didn't we ? LOL Sure did. Because I was there the day that they put that marker on your "house" and left a little space under the edge of the concrete for maybe a pack of cigarettes and a can of beer. By the way, you have to stop smoking, OK ?

Remembering you this week Pfc Balsley. You to Bev ❤

Hi Mickey.....thinking of you today.....Happy Veterans Day. I want to thank you for all you did for us & our country. Say hello to your mom....give her a big hug from me too....I sure do miss her a lot. God Bless You Both. Love you, Debbi

Hi Kid. Camp Dodge just called,the Iowa National Guard lives there, and a detail is coming tomorrow to install a new flag pole for us. See, when I first moved here I had some one put in a flag pole for you and the Flag was there day and night. Every now and then there is a comment about how no flag in bad weather or after the sun goes down, etc. Well, my idea is, you were out there day and night and in bad weather. Right ?And your brick is out there as well. Over the years, the concrete base has loosened up some and it started to lean a bit. And this last storm finished the job 100%. Well, in between the leaning and final ending of the pole by the wind, Misty contacted some one and from fixing the base of the pole they are going to put in a new pole. Oh Mikey...God takes care of those in need. And now this. I'll take a couple of photos and post them. I'll get back to you......
Ol' Dollar

Hi Kid. I'm trying to find the way to "contact me", in case some one wants to. This weekend I'll go up to the garage and take a couple of photos and post them for you.
Ol' Dollar.

Hi Kid. This weekend is the"Good Guys" and, yes, I'll be there at zero dark thirty. The weather calls for high 90's and I don't do heat. Something different this year. I want to go on the opening day instead of Saturday morning. Haven't done that before. You coming ? LOL I'll be looking for you, that's for sure.
Had a "garage sale this past weekend and sold a bunch of stuff. Diane bought me a new roll away. Big old thing so all my tools will fit now. Had to move the benches some to make it fit. It's over 5 ft. tall and 44 inches wide. Yep ! Manly tool box. LOL Still haven't found the bumper stickers that I had on my other one. But, that's cool. I'm happy and a great place to live. I wish that you were here all the time. Something moves out of the corner of my eye from time to time. I really feel that you are here, too. The garage looks cool, Michael. I'll post some photos of "Hatcreek". Love ya. Ol' Dollar

Hi Mikey baby, it's been some time since I've posted, but as you know not a waking hour goes by that I don't think of you.

Went to Yuba City on Memorial Day. Your name was on the many panels of those killed since 9/11. It was so hot that day.

In a few weeks it will be your birthday. Always a emotional and difficult day to get through.

I love you and miss you so much! Till we're together again...

Hi Mikey...

Been awhile since I have stopped by to say hello but today I was definitely thinking of you so here I am. Memorial Day is so hard for your mom but I know you are watching over her. I try to keep an eye on her too. You and your family are always in my thoughts and prayers. Rest in Peace.

Good morning, Kid. Found another cool photo of Keith that I thought that you might like. Diane and I built a picnic bench that's going just outside the door of the garage/barn so the cats and I have a place to visit and sit together. And we also cleaned the place up some as well. Outdoor cats can do some real messy things all winter long. And we thought the ducks were dad ? Oh, they're somewhat box trained and will go outside when it's reasonably warm but when it's 10 degrees and minus that, would you go outside ? Yeah, that's what I'm thinking. Got a guy looking at my car this week. All last year with the radiation and chemo, I didn't drive much and it sat in the garage. Things are so so so much better these days. And the Good Guys are coming up too. Want to go with me ? Love ya, Kid.
Ol' Dollar

Hi Kid. It's raining right now and cold. No snow, though. The worst is about over, I think. Up in the pasture the first start of a green tinge is happening. We might board the horses out this Spring to allow the grass to take hold. Otherwise they'll take it down to the dirt. Horses are like that. "Eating machines", is what Buddy calls them. My neighbor offered to take them for a few months and they'll be almost next door so I can ride my ATV over there to visit.
Thank you for coming by the other night. Nice to talk to you again. You know what's in my heart and that's what really matters, I guess. That's why you come to me. I'm listening to "On Every Street", the 9 min. and something version. "lady killer, regulation tattoo", yeah. "And it's you I'm still looking for........." The drums are just starting in with those beginning rifts with the reverb and bass. Very cool song, Mikey. Some times I start to cry and then I realize that I'm just feeling sorry for my self. That's no way to be. Because I also know that you're in the doorway looking at me with that crazy grin of yours with a sleeveless t-shirt and your Dallas hat on backwards. Hate that Army issue photo. Doesn't look anything like you. Da da, da da, da da,
da......, yeah, very cool rifts.
Need to go, brother man. Take care. Will you come tonight ?
Ol' Dollar

Hey Kid. War story time. Remember when I'd tell you about my little adventures ? One night I was driving down E-14th listening to a Mark Knopfler cd that I had made and was listening to "On Every Street" and started to cry, listening and thinking of you. With the reverb and bass guitar blasting, sitting low in the seat. Still love to cruise at night. Oh, Diane bought me another stingy brim. Very cool. Even a Stetson too like my old one. Anyway, couldn't do the heartbreak anymore, so I pulled the cd out and threw it out the window. That was pretty much when I realized that I had to get out of California and not come back. Got my wish, didn't I. Glad I did too. Never been happier in all my life. Got me a big ol' barn to play in and play the music as loud as I want.
Spring is almost here, boy. How about you coming to see me and we'll play some screaming rock and roll. Got quite a collection. I'm listening to "On Every Street" right now, just starting the instrumental part now on the long version (8-47).I miss you.........
Ol' Dollar
Ol' Dollar.......

Hey Kid. Thinking of you this morning. I was watching a video of "Gimme Shelter". Keith was playing at "the Apollo". What made it kind of special was that Waddy Waschel was playing too. You always did like Waddy. Been around a long time.
It will be getting warmer in the next couple of months and I'll be able to spend my days up in the barn again. Really looking forward to it. Everything will be green again and the cats will be able to enjoy the sunshine. I want to get another one of those picnic benches up by the door so they can lay down and nap. Going to be nice. I've made a bunch of new CDs to play. Tell you what, I'll make another one right now with this recording of Keith and I'll play it for you..........

Ol' Dollar

Hi Kid. Couldn't help it. Had to go into the "museum" this afternoon and found your room. And went back to the day of your memorial and heard "I Sang Dixie".
I miss you, boy.

Good Morning, Kid. New Years Eve. Snowed last night, more like sleet. It's something like a minus 15 outside today. Diane went down to get the paper and had only "one kitty cat escort". She usually gets an escort of at least one cat usually 2 go with her, even in the snow. Just too cold today. The latest cat,"Curley" is getting down right large. When he showed up that night he was awful small. I didn't think the other cats would welcome a strange visitor, but everything is cool.
We are having turkey for dinner tonight and with all 16 NFL teams playing today it's going to be a very good day. We received a very cool Christmas gift from Mark and Paula, a ham, turkey, BBQ ribs and veggies. You used to call something like that a "feast" and that it is. All that came in 6 very big boxes. We ate some of the ham and the rest went in the freezer. Life is good, Mikey, even in the winter time in Iowa. I'm changing over my desk calendar and making a note for the Good Guys next year. Looking forward to it. I really like better than Pleasanton, for real. A little different in the lay-out of the place but it's bigger with more places to get "goodies" as in food. I still go at "zero-dark-30" and leave when it starts to get warm. And it does get warm, very warm.
Need to go, my man. I love you, Punk !!
OL' Dollar............

Jesus, I can't believe it's been so many tears, yet still feels like yesterday. You're not forgotten by any means. I wish you were here to meet my family and I could have met yours.

Hi Mikey Baby, thinking about you like I do every waking hour. Just heard a song on the radio about someone that looses a friend. The song goes on saying it's been a long day, but I'll tell you all about it when I see you again.

I believe you know what's going on, I just can't see you is all. Some day we'll be together again Mikey.

A friend of mine saw Jimmie, and told him how much you look alike. Even though he's never met you but has seen lots of photos of you. Jimmie told him "yes I hear that a lot". So through Jimmie, I can get a glimpse of what you'd look like now.

Just know Mikey, that there's so many people who honor you and our fallen heroes.

Love and miss you son!!! Give grandma a hug for me.

It's quiet in here this morning and I'm looking at your photo, the one with you next to your Humvee. I know better but I got listening to "California Dreamin'". Takes me back to '68 during Tet every time and that of course takes me to you. Damn, kid, I miss you. "Took a walk on a winter's day". Yeah, for real. To the Perfume River. The same with you, only you didn't come home. I hear, "Blowing In The Wind" in my head from time to time. It's so very true, Mikey. I was about 14 maybe, in a pizza place in Albany and that song came on the juke box. For some reason it frightened me. Like it was a premonition of things to come. And come it did. I'm rambling aren't I ? I miss you. Come see me ?

Hi Kid. You're in my heart today. I'm looking at the photo of Ralphy, Jim Chesbrough and me with arm out-stretched for Ryan. He asked if he could hang out with us that day. Always did like that boy. Maybe when he gets older he'll come looking for me. I'd like that. Yeah, you're in my heart today. The world was a little bit better with you in it. There was a song years ago, "How About A Little Good News Today". Something about you, man, that gave off positive vibes. Maybe that's the "old hippie" in me. My hair is below my shoulders now. Got it tied like a pony tail.
I was thinking about going out for dinner tonight and do the "missing man" thing but it's way too cold and it's snowing pretty good out there. It isn't cool when a "partner" dies. You were my side-kick, man. I went to the Good Guys in Pleasanton and everywhere I looked I saw you. Remember when the California Girls pulled you over to where they were ? Yeah ! That was hilarious. Wish I still had that photo. They all autographed it too. We'll be going to the Good Guys here in Des Moines this year for sure. I've made arrangements for us to have a space under the trees by the cow barns. So we can sit in the shade and watch the cars go by. It gets hotter than Pleasanton out there. Last year was kind of cold and rainy. One thing about the weather here, if you don't like it, wait about 15 minutes. For real.
Be cool, Kid. Here's a hug. Love ya.... Sent you photo. That's Patty taking a nap like the ducks would do with you. LOL

Hi Kid. Looking forward to tomorrow. There's a present under the tree. Wonder how it got there ? Thank you, man. I was hoping for a "white Christmas" but it looks like a "wet Christmas" instead. it will be cold alright but not cold enough for snow just rain.
Need to go, man. I'll talk to you tomorrow. Good night..... Dad. Oh, here's a hug. Merry Christmas........

Good morning, my man. I was watching the Macy's Parade this morning and the Mutant Turtles was coming down the street. I thought of you. Thought that I'd die laughing when you gave Raider the Turtle.
It's getting colder these days and I'm thinking snow by Christmas easy. The weather calls for snow about 150 miles north of here this weekend. Won't be long. We're going to get some thermal heating pads for the cats this winter. We can't have a heater per se because of the pet door being open all the time. But, they can get up on the wood rack away from the cold air. And they are feed well and loved every day. The chickens are laying now. Fresh eggs every day. Still have to put higher stakes in the ground to raise the height of the fence. Only one trys to get out. I'm scared that a hawk will get it one day. We've already lost 4. That's when we wanted to do the so called "free range" thing. Yeah, free range for who ? The hawks or their dinner.
The barn is looking nice. I got Jim, a friend, to add another circuit for more outlets for more lights. Finally added parking curbs so I won't back into the wall and moved things around. Next year when we go to the Good Guys I'm going to get another neon sign of some sort to hang on that back wall.
This Veterans Day we went out to dinner. I ordered a Budweiser for you for the "missing man" thing and held hands and said a Prayer. You know, I found a photo of you from maybe the second grade. It's a black and white copy but it means so much to me ! I don't have hardly any photos of you or your brother but that's alright. I have those pictures in my mind and those can not be taken away from me. God sees to that. We are going into Des Moines tomorrow morning and I'm going to get a frame for that little photo and hang on my office wall. Right now I was looking at the photo of Ralphy, Jim Chesbrough and me. Been a few miles since that day, huh ? Some times when I'm up in the barn I think of you, Kid. You would have had fun here with me. It's quiet, peaceful, trees and a little wind. I'd even let you ride my ATV out on the Highway. The Sheriff is cool. He waves to me when he goes by. He's never seen me on the thing but he does know that I'm out there from time to time. LOL I like to go all the way up the canyon where it levels off and goes straight and level for maybe 5 miles. No traffic, no nothing but fields. Some times I've pulled off the road and just think about things, some times about you.
You'll be in my heart today, Kid. I love ya, Kid..............

Hello, my man. Been awhile since I've put a message in here. Sorry about that. I'll bring you "some do better". Lou was here last week and we went to the State Fair. Had a couple of hot dogs and funnel cake. Very nice ! Went into the different barns and checked out the animals. Horses and cows are cool and all but I still like my pigs. I'd get one but with the chickens, cats and the horses it's a bit busy when it's time to feed everybody.
I was downloading some music this afternoon and I came across our song," the Wild Ones" by Waylon. Yeah, we were the ones they couldn't control. If only you could have lived a bit longer, we would have had some fun out here on the "Ridgetop". Take care, Mikey...............

Good morning, Kid. I found a little something that had you written all over it. This one's for you, Mikey..........

Hey Kid. I had to go into Des Moines last night to get Joel at the airport. Bad decision. There was snow, then sleet. Bad bad bad. Got a little nervous a couple of times. Turned out just fine though. It's gets dark out there ! I had "Born In The U.S.A." to keep me company. Was that your doin' ? LOL I'm still playing with my guitar. Starting to sound like something. I can get the rhythm going for "Gimme Shelter" just have to pick up the speed some. Almost ready for us to go on tour.. Huh ? I miss ya........
Ol' Dollar

9 years ago that knock at the door. Two men in uniform saying the Army regrets to inform you. My life has never been the same. I went to City Hall this morning and put some of the sand from Iraq that was given to me, and some on your flagpole base Mikey So many people have sent me messages about how you will never be forgotten Mikey. I love you and miss you son!!! Till we're together again. Love Mom

Hi Punk. Found a way to down load music again. Keep running into some malware or some ugly thing. Found a little song, "Tulsa Queen" by Emmy Lou. There was a line that reminded me of you. The song is about a train and the words are about a memory and how memories don't really matter because they come and go and you're gone. Or maybe I'm just in a frame of mind and I'm thinking too much ?
Maybe you'll come tonight and we'll visit.

Merry Christmas, my man. Thank you for the socks. They'll be sure to keep my feet warm. There's snow on the ground this morning. But, It won't last long. It's going to be in the high 30's by noon.
I see that the photo of the horses made it alright. I'll add more in the next few days. This one is some what mis-leading. The one in the back ground doesn't live here. He was on loan but Sonny was available before she came here. The other one was here for company for Dollar so he wouldn't get lonely. Horses like company because they're herd animals.
I shall think of you today, Mikey. Merry Christmas...........
Dad

Good Morning, Kid. I tried something different. I submitted a photo. Hope it works out alright. If it does then I'll submit more. Ol' Dollar

HI KID. The weather is getting cooler again. Won't be long before the snow is on the ground again. Circle of life. One thing that is cool though is the colors of the trees. It's already starting. I kind of wanted to get a tractor before the snow comes but it doesn't look like it's going to happen. Maybe in the spring. I've been talking to some of the neighbors to get the word out that I'm in the market to get one. That way I won't have to rely on someone to "push snow" for me. And I'll be able to keep the road free of ruts.
I finally caught up with Jeff. Guess that he's doing alright, sounds happy. I'm going to call him in a minute. Your tree is doing fine. Trimmed and fertilized . I'm going to do something different in the spring. Instead of flowers around the base I'm going to put in bark. Might be easier to control the weeds. With the heat and humidity the dirt explodes with growth almost over night. Says something about the soil.
Need to go, my man. Found a different version of "Born In The USA". This one's for you............... Love ya, Kid !

HI Kid. First of all, thank you for you making the Ultimate Sacrifice for your Country. But, also for giving me the opportunity to live in this wonderful Country of ours.
I hired this young dude to repair and put on rain gutter covers. He reminded so much of you. The way he looked, walked and had that grin of yours. Just incredible. He just bought the business from a guy who lives up the road in the canyon. My heart goes out to him, I tell you. But, he's young and has a lot of drive and ambition.
We were outside and the black clouds started to roll in. And the rain was right behind it. And gave me a chance to talk to you for a minute. I miss you, Kid........
Ol'Dollar

Hi Kid. I guess I'm going down memory lane tonight and listening to Waylon I going to promise you, Kid. I'm going to learn the rifts to "Silver Stallion". I going to do it. And it'll be for you. And in the spring, me and you will ride over to the river. I've already talked to Buddy about riding on his land and he's cool with it.
Ol' Dollar

Hey Kid. Yesterday I got on my tractor and went up the hill in the tree line and said a Prayer not only for you but the others who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
Isn't a day go by that I don't think of you, Mikey. I still laugh at some of the things that you did and yes, the sadness comes when I think of that morning in the airport when I saw you walk away. LOL And security came up and wanted to know how I got in there. Maybe God allowed that to happen. To give us one more time alone to talk. But, we still talk at certain times, just you and me. Like that song goes, "we were the ones that couldn't control". Some song have a quiet and deep meaning. In the rifts and how they blend into the words with a little reverb to give a deep personal message in a way.
I'm looking at the engraved brass from the "Fire Team" at the ceremony that was held for you at the John Wayne Museum. I put a copy of the newspaper about that under your tree that day. Which, by the way, is going to look very cool in the spring.
Come tonight, will you, Kid ? I need to chat with you............
Ol' Dollar

Hi Kid. Great day today. The Packers beat the Cowboys. On their way to the Super Bowl. I live almost in the center of the United States and maybe this year I would like to go to a couple of stadiums, your brother and I did to the Bengal's Stadium. And I'll ask about some sort of a memorial for those who have made the Ultimate Sacrifice. I understand that Kansas City has something.
Snow is on the ground and it's been minus degrees a couple of days. Cats hate it. LOL The female walks and shakes her feet in the snow. Still catching mice though. Born again hunters, that's a fact. Your tree looks good. All pruned and shaped. In the Spring it will look great with all the new leaves coming out. Circle of life, my man. Just like you and some day me. But, in the mean time, I'm doing alright. I've found what I've been looking for all my life. I was asked long ago if I have found what I am looking for. Well, I do believe I have. For I have the understanding of meaning of the "Circle of Life". Come see me tonight ?
Ol' Dollar.......

Oh, I came across the music to "So You Want To Be A Rock And Roll Star". The words go, "So you want to be a roll and roll star, hear what I have to say. Buy an electric guitar and take the time to learn to play." There it is, man. St
Still snowing this morning and the wind has come up. It's cold. Dollar doesn't want to come out of the stable except when to eat. Sonny comes out from time to time. I mean, it's cold out there with the wind chill. Just a couple of weeks ago it was 50 - 60 degrees and down to the 30's overnight. Come see me tonight ?
Ol' DOllar...........

Hi Punk. Instead of downloading music I'll be making my own. Got me an electric guitar. Like the song goes, "so you want to be a rock and roll star, learn how to play in a week or so...." LOL Yeah. Needless to say, now you can yell, "turn the gain down !".
There's snow on the ground and it looks like it's going to be around for awhile. But, the house is insulated well and it'll be warm in here. The cats aren't too happy about it. For two of them it's their first winter. I've made some beds for all of them high up on the wood rack where there's no wind and they'll be safe. The son of a friend of mine just went by on the highway scrapping the snow of the roadway. Even though we're in a rural area the roadway stays clear through out the winter.
I have a calendar with artwork and poetic quotes of a Vietnamese Buddhist Priest. Some pretty deep thoughts about how suffering and grief brings compassion and love to the soul. Along the same thoughts of that Apache I came across. And it's so true, my man.
Come see me tonight, kid.
OL' Dollar

Hi Kid. I was checking out some new songs to download to play in the barn when I'm up there. Found another version of "Dead Flowers" by Townes Van Zandt. Very cool. LOL Remember the day we upset the "powers that be" when we got to singing that at the top of our lungs ? It was great ! Wish you that are here right now. Horses are getting a little fat but that's alright because winter is coming. Their hair is getting longer fast, might be a cold one again. It's cool. I'm ready. Come see me tonight ?
Ol' Dollar

Hi Kid. I was downloading some music and I came across a song, "I Sang Dixie" from 86'. Very Cool ! It's a studio version but it's cool. At your memorial for some reason the words came to me and I quietly sang it to myself. Never did talk about it, no need to. It was between you and me.
I'm making a bunch of new CDs. I'm getting kind of tired of the stuff I have. There's a lot of "live" stuff out there with some excellent audio. I'll play it for you in a few minutes, Kid.
Ol' Dollar

Hi Kid. Little warm today. But in a few months there will be snow on the ground again. Only this time we'll be ready, that's a fact. The barn should be up soon and the stall with that "silver stallion" will have a brass plate on the wall just like I promised you. There is a lot of truth to the circle of life, Kid. The four seasons also bring a promise of new life each spring. I understand now the acceptance of your death. And how you
're not really gone because your Spirit lives on. I was talking to a guy awhile back. He was an Apache up in his years and he explained to me the circle of life. Yeah, makes a lot of sense. Maybe come see me tonight, huh ?
Ol' Dollar

Hey Kid. It's raining and some what warm his morning. I was going to go to the Veteran's Cemetery but decided against it. I'm going out to your tree and say a Prayer for those who gave their lives for our Country. I think of you, Kid, every day. Thank you for giving everything you had. Like the saying goes on the back of my shirt, "All gave some, some gave all".
Ol' Dollar.........

Oh Mikey it's Memorial Day. I will be attending 3 ceremonies today and will bring your banner with me. I'm thinking about all the Gold Star Families I've met as we struggle to get through this day. I'm thinking also of Josh Morberg and Alexander Fuller. I love you and miss you so much son!

Michael, I love and miss so much. I drive past your street and wish with all my being I had the guts to visit your old house. I see ducks and think of you! I cant believe its been 7 years. You may be gone, but this fellow red head will never forget you.

Hi kid. Well, life itself does turn full circle. Got me another Dodge. Yep ! Some what better shape then the other one. 6 cyl. too. Need to get it lowered down and it will be done, too. Don't know if this little town is ready for a "low rider". LOL But, you always did say that I drive like a "little old lady".
Still real cold here, average 15 degrees. But it'll get warmer soon. I have the barn all fixed up with all the so-called man cave stuff, plus a heater. Doesn't do much good because my cats have to have a cat door to get in and out. And you know, for being outdoor cats, they have yet to mess in the there.
I miss you, Kid. One day next week I need to get that CD with "Silver Stallion" and a few others on it and crank it up and head down the Hwy. 169. Me and you. We're the ones that they couldn't control, huh ?
Ol' Dollar

Oh Mikey, 7 years today. This week has been especially painful for me. Always is in January. I think it's the anticipation of January 25. I couldn't help but think yesterday 7 years ago was your last day on this earth. Thinking of Alexander and Richard today, and the 3/61. I know someday we'll be together again Mikey. I can't wait till I get to hold you in my arms again. Till then, know that I love you so much!!! Give grandma a hug for me.

Well, it's Christmas morning, my man. I'm looking out across the valley. There's maybe 2 foot of snow down there. Out beyond where Buddy has plowed by the tree line, there is bare earth. He'll be ready for next years crop. It's cold but nothing like earlier in the week with 15 below with the wind factor. The cats are living up in the barn these days out of the weather in a dog house up on the wood rack. I'm kind of rambling, aren't I ?Kind of like a new comer in a Meeting. Speaking of which, there are 4 meetings a week in town. Got to call my side kick to see if he wants to go to one this week. We'll have the fence up in the spring. Then maybe I can get that silver stallion like the song goes. Cool song.
Thank you for the card. Nice thought. Thank you. I miss you more than I can explain. Especially on days like Christmas. Diane had a dog tag made with the words, "I'm with you always". I guess you are. Come see me tonight, huh ? Have us an adventure maybe..........
Ol' Dollar

Merry Christmas Mikey! So many memories I've been thinking about. Remembering our Christmas miracle with Simon. Remembering how you would rip open your Christmas presents, were Jimmie would open his, and either read the back of the toy, or take a really good look at the clothes. You'd be finished opening your presents in half the time of your brother.

Christmas just isn't the same without you! Your Christmas stocking is hung on the mantel. I'm cooking two of Jimmie's favorites tonight, prime rib and cheesecake. Although your chair will be empty, I know that you will be with us!

What a celebration you and grandma must be having in heaven, celebrating the birthday of Jesus! Rest in heavenly peace my baby!

All My Love
Mom

Happy Veterans Day Mikey. I know you'll be with me in spirit as I go to honor Veterans today at the two ceremonies I'll be attending. I read the following somewhere: A hero is born when an ordinary person, put into extreme circumstances, makes a selfless choice and performs an extraordinary act that benefits those around them, often at the expense of his or her own life. You are my hero Mikey! Love you and miss you!!!

Good morning, kid. Another fun filled day, to be sure. Been hot lately but that's why God made air-conditioning, right ? Things are coming together, so to speak. The front of the barn will be painted again and the trim is going up after that. Going to the Legacy is kind of like our private little mail box, isn't it ? Nice visit the other night. Never believed too much in the "spirit world", maybe there is something to that. Works for you and I. Be a lot better if you were here though. Some one said that you were in a better place. I answered with, "no, a better place would be at my dinner table." I understand now about how we don't own our children. We can only enjoy them for only so long. Some didn't understand you, Mike. You and I had a understanding, I guess. Like the song goes," we were the ones they couldn't control". I would like to think that I gave you another way to look at life, rather then chase windmills and fight dragons like I did all those years. I finally have serenity and peace. Come visit me tonight and we'll have us an adventure, huh ?
Ol' Dollar

Just wanted the Balsley family to know that we are thinking about Michael today as we always have in years past & will in years to come. Thank you!

Hey punk. Another warm day and kind of humid. Looks like a thunder storm is coming. Looks cool with all the lightening across the valley. Been here now almost 7 months now and your tree is looking good with your brick at the base. Coming down road, the flag and your tree are really visible on the ridge. The Remembrance is coming up again. I have sort of mixed feelings. Kind of like going to a Meeting in a way. Lots of different feelings. Helps me understand and accept what happened that day. Maybe Bertolli's mom will be there this year. When I saw the Unit Crest on the screen with the name I looked back in the group and there was this one mom crying. I went up and talked to her during the break. Seemed like a nice lady. That's where I met the guy who does the flag poles. Sure did a bang up job. Looks very cool out there. For the 4th. of July I hung the "Stars and Bars" on the front of the barn. I intend to hang on all legal holidays from now on. Got's to be political correct, now don't we ? Hey. I found a version of "Gimme Shelter" from Oakland. Very cool, Mikey. Long too. But, that why the tickets are so expensive too. Like the name of his Band. Found a t-shirt of the Band awhile back. Need to get made into a tank. I very rarely wear anything but a tank. Got asked one time, what is an Expensive Wino". I looked at him and said, "Me. Then I told him. Come see me tonight ? I miss ya, kid.......
Old Dollar

Happy 30th Birthday Mikey! Thirty years ago at 7:14 a.m., I gave birth to a beautiful blue eyed baby boy that didn't have to much hair. I remember you dad bringing Jimmie to the hospital, wearing a little white hospital gown to meet his new baby brother.

God blessed us with you for 23 years. You will always be forever young at 23.

Today your friends and family will have a birthday/celebration of your life as we remember, honor, miss, and love you. I know you will be there in spirit. We'll be sending you 30 red, white, and blue balloons to heaven for you.

Hi Punk. Found a new version of the "Wild Ones". A live version before he died. Very cool. Thinking of you today, no special reason. It's raining, thunder and lightening outside today. Maybe I'll go out to the Flag and the flowers in a bit and say a Prayer. Seems appropriate.
Ol' Dollar

Hey Punk. Tomorrow is the traditional Memorial Day and I'll be taking a little ride up to the Veteran's Cemetery to put a flag on the Marine's grave. I met his momma a couple of years ago. There was a ceremony for either Veteran's Day or Memorial Day and he was going to be buried the next day. I try to go there from time to time and place a flag on his "house". Running out of flags. Going to have to get a few more. I had the flag pole installed a couple of weeks ago and a new tree for you down the hill a bit. Looks good too. Up on a ridge with some flowers. Funny how life turns out, kid. I lost you but I found salvation in a way. 23 years . The Promises do come true if only you believe and "keep coming back". I truly wish that you and I could have made that journey together. One day at a time, boy !
Ol'Dollar

I have never met Michael, but I knew of him from his mom Bev who is a beautiful person. My family went to his service & I promised her that we would never forget their son. I just wanted them to know every memorial day I wear his picture pin so others can see his face. I wear it the whole week where I work on my hat so students can see him to & ask..who he is & learn that these heros are very real people not just a story in the paper. Today we went to see his name on the wall at the Castro Valley Veterans Memorial. Just want Jim & Bev to know..Michael is one of the faces we remember when the word hero & patriot is mentioned & he will never be forgotten. Your Family will always be in our hearts.

Memorial Day 2013: Hi Mikey baby. Just attended a beautiful tribute to the fallen. Tomorrow, I will attend three Memorial Day events. Even before you we're killed your dad and I would attend these ceremonies. Now, they have even more meaning to me. In a few days it will be your dads birthday. Come to him in a dream, I know he'd like no other birthday gift than that. It was hard to see your name on a panel today. Like the Marine that gave the speech today, said he truly believes that all of you that are fallen heroes would still join and serve the military. I believe that, and although I would give my life for yours, I wouldn't try and talk you out of joining the military. That was your dream. I'd give anything to hold you again and tell you how much I love you, and how very proud of you I am.

All My Love
Mom

Hey kid. Remember talking to Sam and "Floyd" was playing ? You loved the solo and you wanted to learn how to play it. Just found a 5 min. version. I was thinking of you. Up on this ridge it's quiet peaceful. I put your brick out front. When the flag pole goes up it'll be on the base, to be sure........
Ol' Dollar

Hi Mikey baby
6 years...Sometimes it seems like just yesterday, other times it seems like a lifetime ago. But the pain of losing you is still as raw as the day we we're notified. I miss you and love you so much! All My Love, Mom

To the family and friends of Pfc. Michael C. Balsley:
It has truly been my honor to sign Michael's guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, this may be the last message I'm able to write. Please forgive me and know that Michael will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy

God Bless.

Good morning, Punk. Another great day, sort of like "living the dream" LOL. Life is good. In about 30 days it'll be 23 years. Got kind of old chasing windmills and fighting dragons. Me and you had the answer though didn't we ? Out of the corner of my eye some times I think I see you walking towards me. Some say that it's you in the spirit world. We'll have to see won't we ?
Ol' Dollar........

Merry Christmas Mikey baby! Your Christmas stocking is hanging up, just as it has every since you were a little boy. Only thing missing is you! I love you and miss you Mikey! All my love, Mom

Hey punk. Like the song said, "we were the ones they couldn't control". Yep.
Ol' Dollar

I miss you just as much now as I did the day I found out you weren't coming home. Your memory as well as your legacy will continue to live on through my children and for many years after that. Your always in our hearts and we love you very much. Your thought of every day as you are always in our thoughts and prayers! Love U Mike Mike

thinking of you, mike. i love you and miss you.

Hey Punk. Found a way to download music of the internet. Like Waylon said, "going down rockin'" Found a cool version of "Puff". Me and you, kid.
Ol' Dollar

Hi Mikey baby...Just thinking about you like I always do. Just wanted to tell you how very much I love you and miss you!
Love Mom

Nothing special, I was thinking of you this morning and wanted to say hello. Saw a movie awhile back with Steve McQueen. At the end he was sitting there and asked,"what happened ?" Yeah, what happened, kid ? Time has a way of making people forget, just the nature of things. But some of us will not forget
Ol' Dollar

Happy 29th Birthday Mikey! Woke up this morning wishing you a Happy Birthday. Wish I could put flowers on your grave today. You should have been layed to rest between your grandparents and someday me. Grandma told me your not really there now, it's just a shell, but it would give me comfort to talk and visit with you.

I still cry over losing you. The pain isn't any easier after 5 years. Oh, how I wish I could hold you again, and see that beautiful smile of yours. Someday, I will!
I Love You Mikey!!!
Love
Mom

Hey Punk. Heard a song today and thought of you. "When a soldier comes home" Lots of truth in the words.
Ol'Dollar

Dear Bev and family,
Our thoughts, prayers and support are with you and your family every day. We will never forget the sacrifice made by your son for all of us. We are so glad that we can support you in person and get to know you now that you have joined the American Legion Auxiliary Santa Clara Unit 419. It is our privilege to serve with you now, and to be included in remembering sweet Michael.
Cindy Newman

Dear family and friends of Pfc. Michael C. Balsley,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We know that freedom is not free, as Linda's brothers, one in the Korean war and the other in the Vietnam war, also served as did Michael. These men have sacrificed so much for our country to preserve our freedom and liberty that we so much enjoy. God bless you. God bless our country.
Sincerely,
Chaplin Linda and Earl McHaffie
American Legion Unit 419