John Richard Balko

Rich was one of the nicest guys I have ever met. We were in school together at Clark from kindergarten on to our senior year. How he loves his family and never tired of telling us all about them at our class reunions. We will all certainly miss Rich. Peace and love.

Rich (cubby) the name my granddaughter Brandi gave you, you fought a tough battle with Leukemia and I truly thought you could win and I was really rooting for you , since we both had blood cancers . You lived a great life and a full one and thats the best thing anyone could ask for ..you will be missed !! Sandy Moore

Kim, Brad and Julee my heart is with you.
your family was my family, those couple of years that I lived with you your parents treated me like their own. I loved your dad he was my second father. I will always remember the trip we all took to the baseball hall of fame and how he shared so much information. Our times in Philadelphia trying to see who had the better cheese steak. his gardens that he planted I think he had planted mush melon? He was so proud of all his grand children. I...

I got to Know Rich as a fellow crossing guard he was a really great guy. We had some good talks about his family and his golf game .You could tell he really loved his family and like the game of golf, he also really enjoyed being a crossing guard. He had a great rapport with the kids and their parents. I know they all will miss him very much, just like everyone who got to know him. RIP.... Al Erdossy

What a Terrific man and friend! Our friendship stems from Richs visits to play golf at Windstar in Naples Bay. Bob and I have great memories of wonderful times with him. We are missing you Rich. What a warrior!

Rich, you were a very special friend to me. Everyday with you was a delight no matter the circumstance. You told me so many wonderful stories and never ceased to surprise me with your endless wisdom. You remembered every detail about everything, and your sense of humor still makes me laugh to this day. Having the chance to spend time and get to know you and your family was such a blessing to my life. Much love forever

Rich hired me 44 years ago, worked together for 16 years and then reunited on another work venture a number of years later. We played golf together all over the country and at my club in Marietta, GA. Attended the US Open at Oakmont in '83 and almost made it to the Masters one year, but Rich couldn't make it and he always regretted it. We had spirited debates on political matters, but I always admired his steadfastness in being true to his beliefs. Just an overall great guy!

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Mr. Rich. He always had a smile, a story or a high 5 for our girls on their way to school. We will miss him very much.

A friend of rare quality made only a little more than a year ago. We never lacked for conversation. It was clear that he loved his family, and that he himself was greatly loved.