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Clarence Balch Obituary
Murfreesboro, TN
Clarence A. (CA) Balch, Jr., of Murfreesboro, TN, formerly of Clemson, SC, died August 28, 2014 at age 80. He was a 1959 Mechanical Engineering graduate of California Polytechnic State University, and had a long and illustrious career in both industry and higher education. CA retired from Michelin North America and from Clemson University. He was a friend of the Hunley, a trivia buff, and an avid Clemson Tigers fan.
CA is survived by his wife, Marion S. Collins of the home; their children: Mindy Hester (Mark), Craig Balch (Lynn), Randall Balch (Kat), David Collins (Rebecca), Susan McElroy (Calvin), and Catherine Collins (Thom); a sister, Jeane Sutherland of Redding, CA; seven grandchildren; and a host of other family and friends. He was predeceased by his first wife, Jerry M. Balch.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 12, 2014, at 2 pm at Clemson United Methodist Church, 300 Frontage Rd., Clemson, SC 29631 with visitation afterwards.
The family suggests memorials to the Clemson Wesley Foundation, PO Box 590, Clemson, SC 29633, the MTSU Wesley Foundation, 216 College Heights Blvd., Murfreesboro, TN 37130, or St. Mark's United Methodist Church Preschool, 1267 N. Rutherford Blvd., Murfreesboro, TN 37130.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Clarence Balch
5 Entries
Susan Greer
November 13, 2014
So very sorry to hear about Clarence passing. I worked with him at Michelin and was friends with him for many years. He made the wedding cake for my wedding. I know you will miss his great smile and jolly laugh. He was a very special man.
Amanda Turner
October 22, 2014
Clarence was a dedicated member of OLLI at Clemson. He was a terrific instructor and volunteer. Marion, please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Anne Snider
October 13, 2014
C.A. was such a gem and will be missed. He was my "date" for Wednesday night supper for many years, as my husband was often traveling. A few years ago he was in the sanctuary when our handbell choir was warming up and heard the choir complain that they couldn't see me, the director (I'm short!). By the end of the service, C.A. had sketched out a design for a riser that would fit between the rows of chairs. I took the sketch to Garnet Craddock, and by the next week I had a riser that I love. C.A. has blessed many lives over the years--I'm sure I'm just one of many.
Anne & J
October 8, 2014
During this time of loss please find comfort in the comfort from God. Isaiah 51:12
Chris Miller
October 8, 2014
Mr. Balch was my graphics instructor when I was a student at Clemson in 1991. He was a fine man and will be missed.
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