Search by Name

Search by Name

Sarah Balkema Obituary

BALKEMA
Sarah "Sally" Ann Balkema passed away at Christus Santa Rosa hospital on January 30, 2013. She was born in Detroit, Michigan on April 9, 1935 to Robert Balkema and Helen Goeschel. Sally had lived in New Braunfels, Texas for over 35 years.

Sally received her undergraduate degree from St. Louis University and her Masters' Degree in Nursing from the University of Washington. She served in the U.S. Army for 20 years and retired as Lieutenant Colonel. Lt. Col (Ret.) Balkema's specialty was pediatric nursing, she also served in Vietnam (where she was awarded the Bronze Star), and she taught at Walter Reed Army Institute of Nursing.

After retirement, Sally continued to help others by working with H&R Block preparing tax returns for her faithful clients. She also became active as a foster mom and a board member with Lucky Star Cavalier Rescue. Everyone was always welcome in Sally's home where she mentored many and was a friend to all. Sally will always be known for her heart.

She loved to travel and experience good people and good food in places like Germany, Alaska, Michigan, British Isles, Mexico, Louisiana, and wherever her van might travel. Having been taught to hunt by her father, Sally continued that passion around the world up until the last years of her life.

Sally was predeceased by her father, mother, and life partner of more than 25 years (Joan Cotter). She is survived by three cousins: Ruth (Ryan) and Terry McInerney, Helen (Ryan) and Lyle Davis, Thomas and Carol Ryan, and Colleen (Ryan) and Ken Anderson; godchild Erin Bouthillier (William); and godgrandchildren Sarah (Sally's namesake) and Helen Bouthillier; numerous friends; and her two furkids (Finnigan and Bella).

A Memorial Fund has been established in Sally's name at Lucky Star Cavalier Rescue, P.O. Box 7054, Carmel, CA 93921; www.luckystarcavalierrescue.org.

A celebration of Sally's life will be held at home in New Braunfels on Saturday, February 16, 2013 at 1 p.m. All who loved her are welcome.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Antonio Express-News on Feb. 9, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Sarah Balkema

Not sure what to say?





3 Entries

Hon. Leticia Van de Putte

February 26, 2013

Dear Balkema Family:

Please accept my deepest sympathies on the loss of your beloved. There are never any right words to express how deeply sad I am for the pain your family is enduring at this difficult time.

As Chair of the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs and Military Installations, I am sincerely thankful for her valiant service in defense of our rights and freedom.

Her commitment to family, friends, our community, and to serving our great nation leaves a wonderful legacy. May the love and the wonderful memories you shared with her help you when you need it most. She will never be forgotten, and your family will be remembered in my prayers.

Susan Schrade

February 17, 2013

Sally, I'm so greatful that I had a chance to meet you and thanks to your work I have 2 wonderful fosters. The world was made a better place by all your love and work.

Joan Stamp

February 13, 2013

Sally is a friend that will be remembered forever for her kind heart. Rest in peace my friend

Showing 1 - 3 of 3 results

Make a Donation
in Sarah Balkema's name

Memorial Events
for Sarah Balkema

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Sarah's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Sarah Balkema's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more