Andrew Balser

Andrew Balser

Andrew Balser Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Jul. 27 to Jul. 28, 2005.
BALSER, Andrew Allen (Andrew-"Manly and Handsome" Allen- "Cheerful") October 18, 1990 - July 23, 2005 It is with heavy spirits and broken hearts that we say good bye to our beloved boy, taken tragically from all who loved him, now an angel in God's hands. He leaves his gift of love and treasured memories with his dad, Allen; his mom, Lori; sisters, Laina, Janine and Crystal; grandparents, Meta Steinborn, Cecilia Balser, Ed Steinborn, George and Mary Balser; nephews, Anthony, Jayden and Samuel; his Auntie Nancy, Uncle Alfred, and Auntie Carolyn, Uncle Robert and Auntie Mary, Uncle Stephen and Aunt Joan; cousins, Eric, Christopher, Amanda, Crystal, Candace, and Coral; and so many friends and teammates whose lives he touched through his kindness, thoughtfulness and gentle ways. Andrew was the happiest baby a parent could know, a strong, hardworking athlete and an honours student for the past 3 years at Hillcrest Junior High School. Andrew attended Lymburn School from grades 1-6 where he grew both academically and socially to become an honours student involved in numerous leadership roles. He will always be remembered for his inviting smile, sense of humour, endless caring of others and intuitive sense of what was just and right. We'll miss you 'beetaroo'. A Celebration of Andrew's short but rich life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 29th, 2005 at the Trinity United Church, 8810 Meadowlark Road, Edmonton, Alberta with friend, Pastor Earl Klotz leading the remembrance. For those who would like to honour Andrew's generous and giving nature, donations can be made in his memory to "WECARE Christmas Angels" c/o Alberta Treasury Branches or to a scholarship fund c/o "Edmonton Public Schools". Howard & McBride Chapel of Chimes 422-1141

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August 11, 2005

Bruce & Sarah Clarke posted to the memorial.

August 11, 2005

Dr. Neal Fong - Devil's Hockey posted to the memorial.

August 11, 2005

Amanda Balser posted to the memorial.

51 Entries

Bruce & Sarah Clarke

August 11, 2005

Dear Al & Lori,



Sarah and I were both deeply saddened to hear about Andrew's sudden passing. Our thought and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Dr. Neal Fong - Devil's Hockey

August 11, 2005

Al and Family, my deepest sympathy goes to you and your family for your loss of your son.

Amanda Balser

August 11, 2005

Andrew was one of the kindest guys you'll ever meet. He just had a way of making you laugh, or cheering you up. Doing something for you when he needed it. He would listen to your stories politely, respect everyone equally, treat everyone; even opposing teams fairly. He would tell amusing stories, do crazy things in an attempt to bring a smile to your face, have conversations with you about anything and everything, or sit quietly and listen if you needed him to.

This still doesn't feel real to me. I can still see his face so clearly in my mind, it feels like just yesterday I last saw him. It's hard to imagine someone I've grown up with.. treated like a brother.. someone i've seen practically everyday of my life, always taking advantage of the fact that he'd just be there, he'd always be there, just... gone like that.

It's hard to believe that I'll never see him, or talk to him about scary movies, or wave to him in the hall (even though I'm his older cousin, and it would normally be embarassing to hang out with me, he never shied away from waving to me in the hall), or make fun of/mock people, or get ice cream, or walk with him at the bus stop ever again.



Right now, I'm lost, and I don't really know how to heal, so I just try not to think about the fact that I'll never hear his voice or see his broad grin, or hear his laugh/one word answers ["yes.".. "no."] ever again.

I guess I will have to find away to believe that I will experience all of these things again, when I meet Andrew in heaven.



One thing that I am taking with me, to soothe the pain of losing someone so young with so much life ahead of himself, is the idea that the reason why God had to take Andrew, is because he needed him. He needed someone so special, so amazing, so loved to complete a task for him so much greater then anything we, here on earth, can fathom.



Goodbye Beetaroo, my darling little cousin. I will be seeing you in the future.



Love you.

Amanda

Michele & Shannon Johnson

August 5, 2005

Al, Lori, Crystal, Laina, Janine and Family,



I'll never forget the day Andrew was born. We were all so happy and excited for you and Lori. He was such a sweet boy. Although I never had the pleasure of knowing Andrew as a youth I knew the love and proudness you felt, by your words. We are so sorry for your loss. If there is anything I can do...

Celina Comeau

August 4, 2005

Andrew

I cant really say i was your friend, nor can i say we never knew eachother. I saw you breifly at cities one day. I knew instanly that you would be a great friend. I didnt think much about you untill Savannah told me about your death. I now wish i took the time to talk to you more and develop a friendship with you. Iam sorry. May god be with you for ever, becuase forever you will remain on our hearts. XOXO R.I.P luv Celina <3

Corrisa Laboucan

August 4, 2005

Andrew. man

i miss you boy. i've really only met you once but that day. you were the most coolest one. i know you up there watching over all of us. and stay the same when you up there because i know you can change a lot when you up there

r.i.p man.

Savannah Halligan

August 4, 2005

R.I.P. Andrew Balser

I was heart brokin wen i found out wat happened 2 you..

I wish you didnt have 2 leave so soon..

God needed you up there becuse there was on only like you

you always had a smile on ur face..and made people laugh..

Miss you deeply

I hope 2 see u soon

tolene yasin

August 4, 2005

Rest in peace Andrew,

i Loved u with all my heart , u made our job at tim hortons so much fun and u became such a good friend to me. You are always going to be in my heart ....... U were always there for me when i needed a shoulder to cry on......I love You

**So much Love, Tolene***

Timothy Furness

August 3, 2005

Big Al, Lori, Laina, Janine,



It has taken me a long while to come up with any words. You've eached suffered an incredible loss - A son, a younger and older brother. I want you all to know that I have lossed a friend; A friend I was fortunate to grow up with on ocassion. I will surely miss sharing our memories together, and giving him a hard time like the lil bro I never had.



I send my love, compasion, and miss you all.

Angel *

August 3, 2005

Andrew you will be greatly missed and always remembered. Your soul and spirit will carry on for a lifetime.

My prayers go out to Andrew's amazing family who through their strength and love has shown me the meaning of a family. It has made me realize, not too take life for granted and cherish every moment with them, because it is those memories that will hold strong in the end. God bless the Balser's and their struggle to cope with such a tradgic loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you allways.

Andrew's service was very beautiful and heart wrenching. It is something I will remember for the rest of my life. The amout of people there showed how much this young man was loved and admired. He had an such an impact on everyone he knew. A one of a kind. Rest in peace.

Roland Saunders

August 2, 2005

Allen and Family, I am so sorry for you loss, my heart goes out to you all. The loss of a loved one is never easy, and the loss of a child is even more difficult. I know your son had a huge impact on his world and the people that were involved in his life, and he will not be soon forgotten. My thoughts, as well as the rest of the Devils Hockey Club, are with you in this difficult time, and if there is anything we can do, do not hesitate to ask.

Tracey Logan

August 2, 2005

Al, Lori and family:



I remember when Andrew was four and he was downstairs playing with Lori and I while we were trying to get some work done. He came over to where I was sitting at the computer and started tapping on the keys. Soon I lost a whole report - back in the days when we were still trying to figure out your old Commodore!

I am so sorry that you have to face this terrible ordeal and have lost your son.

My thoughts are with you.

Chris

August 1, 2005

Rest In Peace Andrew Im Going To Miss You Buddy You Were Always Competitive And Never Gave Up! You Were Always A Nice Guy And You Always Found A Way To Rub Either A Win Or A Loss In My Face No Matter The Situation, And Even In The Worst Time You Always Would Make Everyone Laugh No Matter The Situation! Love You Like The Older Brother I Never Had Soon Ill Be Joining You With The Big Guy Up There And We Can Hang Out All The Time But Untill Then My Freind Rest In Peace!

October 18, 1990-July 23, 2005

Deborah Teed

July 31, 2005

To Allen, Lori and Family,

We want to express our deepest sympathy for your family's great loss. Nothing can take this pain from you at this time in your life, but take some comfort in the knowledge that you have a great many friends and family who are there to support you and help you during this difficult time. The Teed Family

Andy Karesa

July 31, 2005

Andrew

You were a great friend and person i will truly miss you

At least i was fortunate enough to have a chance to know you

Tisha Levene

July 30, 2005

To the ba;ser family,

Very sorry for your loss of a wonderful son that i knew of yours.He was very nice and im glad i can say i knew Andrew.

Andrew you were a kind,wonderful and loving person.It's sad that a great person has left this world at such a young age but I know that your in a much better place looking at all f us. God bless your family and you. R.I.P Andrew Balser

Denise Queeley

July 30, 2005

Balser Family,

Words can not express the feeling of pain and sorrow in our hearts for your family.We are truly sorry for your loss, but know that Andrew has gone to a much better place. He is in heaven with the almighty Creater, were there is no pain, tears or sorrow, only love, joy, and happiness. Know that he is smiling down, watching and waiting until the day you all can once again be together. The Lord saw that his work here on earth was done- he touched so many lives, including my son Shaquille.- and decided it was time to call him home, for a higher work. Please take comfort in that and stay close with God, always. Again, know that my familys thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Peace be still.

The Bambury-Queeley Family

Amber

July 30, 2005

Andrew was such a good person and such a great friend He has an amzaing family who treats everybody as if we are their family to. r.i.p andrew and good bless balzer family.

Vicki Stapleton

July 29, 2005

We are so sorry about your son Andrew. Our prayers are with you and God Bless you.

The Stapleton Family

colin wilson

July 29, 2005

May your memories of Andrew

comfort you in this difficult time

and help you be at peace.



Our prayers are with you,

Colin, Jeri, Luka and Paris

relations of Bill and Dianna Wilson

Jack Parker Jr

July 29, 2005

My heart goes out to all family and friends of Andrew. May God hold you close in these extremely difficult times.

Laura Weir

July 29, 2005

To Allen, Lori and Family,

Ben and I send our heartfelt sympathies to you in the loss of your beloved son. Please know our hearts go out to you and our arms extend to you in support. May you find peace in the happy memories of Andrew.

~ Laura and Ben

June Benson

July 29, 2005

I thank god for the day Andrew and the Balsers came into my son Matt McKinnons' life. When you become a friend with one of the Balser children you become a friend with the whole Balser family. Andrew was a great kid and that is reflected in how he was raised by great parents. Thank you for your support over the years and in return our door is open to support you, we're just a phone call away. Andrew will remain in our hearts forever and our thoughts are with the family through this sad time.

Hurricanes Football (ETFA)

July 28, 2005

Allen and family, our sympathy on the passing of your son. We are thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.

Tanner Laufersweiler

July 28, 2005

To the Balser Family

All my sympathy is going out to you for the sudden loss of Andrew. Mrs. Balser was my teacher and she talked to us about her family and this is how I know what a wonderful boy Andrew must be. Mrs. Balser encouraged us to have fun and enjoy life and she probably taught this to Andrew also. I can't seem to find the right words to say, as I can't imagine how hard this is for you.

My strongest thoughts are with you forever.

Robert Simonowits

July 28, 2005

To the Balser Family:

My deepest condolences to you, Allen, and your family. My thoughts are with you during this tragic time. Peace be with you and God Bless.

Dusty Kennedy

July 28, 2005

Allen,Lori and Family

My deepest sympathy to your family..I there is anything that i can do just let me know..

Lisa

July 28, 2005

I am So sorry to The family and friends that had to feel such a pain I have a 1yr old son and I cant even imagine..My heart goes out to you all....

Crystal Balser

July 28, 2005

Andrew, you death made me realize how much our family cares about eachother, even tho we are so far away. I regret not going to Edmonton, being to meet you when you were older. This has inspired me to show my love. For you, my family all over and for every other human being. My hopes for everyone to pull through this hard time and grow closer as a family. I hope you didn't have much pain. I know you'll be in a good place.

oxox

Cousin Crystal

Daniel Delaney and Family

July 28, 2005

We are so sorry for your loss. Andrew was a great kid and will be remembered always for a ready smile, kind spirit and his love of sports and much more. He was a great friend and team mate. Daniel always loved playing on Andrews team especially with you as his coash Al. It just wont be the same without him. We all cry for your loss.



(POEM)



Near shady wall a rose once grew,

Budded and blossomed in God's free light,

Watered and fed by morning dew,

Shedding its sweetness day and night.



As it grew and blossomed fair and tall

Slowly rising to loftier height,

It came to a crevice in the wall

Through which there shone a beam of light.



Onward it crept with added strength

With never a thought of fear or pride,

It followed the light through the crevice's length

And unfolded itself on the other side.



The light, the dew, the broadening view

Were found the same as they were before,

And it lost itself in beauties new,

Breathing its fragrance more and more.



Shall claim of death cause us to grieve

And make our courage faint and fall?

Nay! Let us faith and hope receive-

The rose still grows beyond the wall,



Scattering fragrance far and wide

Just as it did in days of your,

Just as it did on the other side,

Just as it will forevermore.



(from the writings of A.L. Frink)

Kathleen Taylor

July 28, 2005

Allan and Lori,

Knowing what an amazing example you both have been to Craig and I, it truly is a tragic loss to know that Andrew would have continued your example by making a difference in this world. I know Andrew (who shares the name of my own son) has been welcomed into Christ's loving arms.

May God bless and you hold you tight Andrew, for being such a glorious son to your parents.



Someone great once told us that "Crisis equals opportunity". May these living words of wisdom uplift you during this time of grief.



Kathleen and Craig Taylor

Karen Pumphrey

July 28, 2005

My sincere sympathy is with your family at the loss of your son. May your strong faith guide you through this tragic time. Remember your spiritual guides.

Pat Power

July 28, 2005

Allen, my deepest heartfelt sympathies to you and your family. My prayers sre with you as you go through this difficult time.

Kelsey Pretty

July 28, 2005

To the Balsers,

I didn't know Andrew much but I am sure that he was as fun-loving like anybody else in your family. Mrs.Balser(TERMINATOR) taught me well and Allen and sometimes Laina coached me in younger years of soccer, also Janine was on my soccer team every year and she was always a helping hand and a good friend.I really just want to say I am sorry Andrew has passed away but I want you to know that he is in a good place and he is safe. P.S- sorry I won't be able to make it to the funeral and thank-you to all the Balsers who had a part in my life because those parts have been some of the best parts of my life!

Cindy Little

July 28, 2005

Deepest condolences, my thoughts are with all of you.

Cindy Little

ACR

Denise Tripp

July 28, 2005

I learned about Andrew through my friend, his cousin, Coral. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I work for the Coalition on Donation in the United States. What an amazing gift Andrew has left to this world. I hope you find some comfort in knowing he saved so many lives, because of your thoughtfulness at the the time of his death.

God bless you,

Denise Mancini Tripp

Jan Solyom

July 28, 2005

Words fail to describe the heavy burden of loss and pain in my heart for you Allen and Lori. The heavens will be a lively place with Andrew. I am so truly very sorry for your loss. With love and a hug. Jan

David Cherrington

July 28, 2005

I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. As a teacher at Hillcrest, I had many occassions to play, laugh, joke and talk with him. He was an outstanding young man and his spirit soared. I will miss him. I loved him and will always cherish those memories. Peace be with you.

Cynthia Frigon

July 27, 2005

Allen, Lori and family,

My condolences for the passing of your son. Much heartfelt sympathy, compassion and respect.

Coral Balser

July 27, 2005

My precious cousin Beetaroo...how can I explain how it feels not knowing I will physically not get to visit you one last time. I will always cherish the time I came down a few years back..you were so young and full of endless energy, compassion and curiosity. I remember drawing pictures as you asked all these questions. You were so smart and literally the sweetest boy I have ever met.



You will always be in my heart and you will never ever be forgotton. You are a hero to everyone who ever got the privelages to get to meet you and be part of your life..and I am extremely proud to have been related to such an incredible person in this lifetime. When I see the sun shine down I will always think of you, Andrew. Much love to you and to the family.

Elena Fried

July 27, 2005

As a life long friend of the Balser family I want to express my condolences to Andrew. Even never met or knew him, I would just like to say that I am sorry for your loss and Andrew will be missed very much and will be remembered. He will be alive in his families hearts and he will never be forgotten, for that is the secret to eternal life.

Mick Furness

July 27, 2005

To the Balser Family:

We cry with you for your loss. Words cannot express our sorrow.

Thinking of you.

Mick and Sheryl

Kaitlynn Kobe

July 27, 2005

Andrew you were a great friend, i'll never forget you, you will be forever missed!

Ally C.

July 27, 2005

Andrew,

I went to school with you for 2 years and i saw the impact you had on the people around you- you were awesome. Although I did not know you very well I will miss you, you have had an impact on my life and I will never forget you.

Ally.

Stephanie Schmidt

July 27, 2005

i am really sorry, and my many condolences go out to your family. I know Andrew was very loved and will be missed

RIP Andrew

Brenda Mulderrig

July 27, 2005

As a mother of a 14 year old girl, I could not imagine the hurt I would go through if i lost my little girl. My prayers go to the family of Andrew, that they find the comfort in eachother to cope with their loss. My deepest sympathy. My daughter was a friend and a school mate of Andrews, and I know that she misses him deeply. And through her grievance, and memories of Andrew, she has shared with me what type of a boy Andrew was and it has touched my heart. It is a tragic loss, but i know he is one of god's angles shining down on everyone. God Bless.

Casey Warrilow

July 27, 2005

Thinking of you in your time of need.

Vivien Gonder

July 27, 2005

My daughters and I send our prayers and love to all of you.

We will be making a contribution to Wecare in Andrew's memory.

God bless,

Viv

Karen Burgess

July 27, 2005

I am so deeply saddened to hear of your sudden loss. It is difficult to grasp the loss of someone who has so many unchartered territories to experience on this earth. May you find peace in your memories of Andrew. Please know that my thoughts, prayers and love are with you. Karen

Joan Balser

July 27, 2005

Andrew,

Moments (Poem)



In my dream I see you and we embrace.

You light up with a constant glow of fire from the pit of your belly.

You flash a smile knowing that life is awesome and nothing will stand in your way.

Each moment is savoured and eaten with gusto because you knew every moment counts!

My time with you was brief and worth a thousand moments but your love is forever and will always be part of me.



I love you...Aunt Joan

Joan Balser

July 27, 2005

Andrew,

Moments (Poem)



In my dream I see you and we embrace.

You light up with a constant glow of fire from the pit of your belly.

You flash a smile knowing that life is awesome and nothing will stand in your way.

Each moment is savoured and eaten with gusto because you knew every moment counts!

My time with you was brief but worth a thousand moments but your love is forever and will always be part of me.



I love you...Aunt Joan

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August 11, 2005

Bruce & Sarah Clarke posted to the memorial.

August 11, 2005

Dr. Neal Fong - Devil's Hockey posted to the memorial.

August 11, 2005

Amanda Balser posted to the memorial.