Craig Michael Balzer

I saw American Noise live at least twice and talked to Craig after a show once./ He was approachable and kind; it's hard to think of such talent never really "making it" like he wanted to but I'm glad he got married and had a successful business later. RIP Craig!

I came across this and I was so sad to hear that Craig passed away. I was in high school when I met him in the 70s, when he and Bruce (duck) were playing in Circus. He was an awesome musician and brother who spread happiness to all. Those were the best years. I just wanted to send condolences to the family. So sorry for your loss. Sue

I am from South Africa, and somehow the American Noise album ended up in my collection in 1990. I was just a kid at the time, learning bass. That album didn't leave my turntable for months. I worked out every song. Amazing how some writers just resonate with you. Thank you for recording those fantastic tunes Craig, wish you had done more .... the earth needs talented beings like you ... you will be missed!

Another cold winter is fading towards spring and I still can feel the biting cold of that day when we all said farewell to Craig. But I also remember the warmth and the love in that room and the many shows and the nights in the studio and high mark that his work placed for others to strive towards. I lost a dear friend, yes, but as long as there is music, we are immortal and we have lived forever if we can remember the songs.

Have this LP and many thousands more. Always sad to find out that another and so many of these great musicians are no longer with us. Sorry to see anyone have to go through a 5 year ordeal with cancer. My condolences to the family.

lighting another candle for Craig. God Bless you

I just found out about Craig, nearly two years past now. so obviously I didn't know him, but I did meet and talk with him at shows. I was 15 (with a fake I.D)in 1980, and more of a metal head. but when I came upstairs from the Pop Shop to the Agora I was completely blown away. Ive carried this band in my Cleveland best stories my whole life,and know the album note for note. but what inspired me even more, is when I learned that Craig had switched gears and moved onto his business. to be that talented,and O.K. with moving on. it made me realize that your life was'nt waisted if you did'nt make it in your first passion,and it did'nt change who you were to move on. Truly a Cleveland legend. I'm honored to have crossed his path,and will continue to share my stories of this band.And to all of you who had known, and loved him, what a gift you shared. God Bless

You inspired me to dream, as many young cleveland musicians do, of making the big time! I will keep living the dream till we meet again my friend, God Bless you & your Family.

Craig was my cousin (my mother - his Aunt Irene - and his mother Marcie were cousins). Although we had lost contact over the years I was sad to hear of his passing. I have fond memories of being a teen interested in music and guitar. When we would have family get-togethers he was always cheerful and patient with me when I asked if he would show me some chords! Rest in peace, Craig.

I was a friend of Craig's back in the 70s. I was so shocked to hear of his passing. He was a very sweet man with so much talent. I will always remember him with fondness and I actually still have the American Noise Album!!! I met him at the Agora in Toledo, Ohio! The rest is history...my condolences to his family and friends.

Deepest sympathy

Craig was a great talent and he showed me a few things on guitar. I shared a practice space along with American Noise, Archer and my band, Jet in the late 70s. He always was a genuine person and there was no pretentious rock star attitude from him. May God bless you and your family.

My condolences to Craig's family & friends. We followed American Noise from Monopolies to the Music Machine & cut class at CSU for a coffee break concert. Thanks to Bam Bam my under 18 yr old sister snuck into Cleveland Connection to see her favorite band. I always knew that Craig had to be as nice as he was talented.

Sad to see you go.. Kinda freaky reading about your death because my name is also Craig Balzer. and I was born and raised in Ohio. only 42 though. but my condolences to the family and friends. tho I didn't know you with a name like that you had to have been awesome!

Uncle Craig ~

"Well hello…how long has it been?
It’s so good…to see you again
It’s been so long…since I left this town
I’ve been away for such a long time
But nothing’s changed…when I look in your eyes
It's still the same..."

"Midnight dances across the floor
I thought I heard you callin’ my name
I watch the clock and I watch the door
But in the distance I see the rain"
"I see your face…I call your name
It’s not the same without you
Night after night…I tell myself it’s alright
I'll get by without you"
"But all [I] want is a place to hide
Under some angel’s wing tonight"

dear polly to my great freinds from cleveland im sorry to haer of your loss u and craig were always great and welcoming every time i visited you im sorry i lost touch but i send my love justin wolff from toledo

I did not know Craig very well, but I do know he was a wonderful guy. He was the loving husband to my cousin Polly and that means so much to me that he and Polly were so happy together. I know Polly is a very strong woman and her life here on earth will be happy enough until she will meet him again. Love you both very much.

I know we will all be together again and in that faith is my comfort for all of us who love Craig, especially you, Polly. We will see each other and be reunited again and this sad time will be as if it never happened. May we all stay strong until that day.

Polly, I just heard, my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. I will always remember. Craig had a huge heart and his wisdom and thoughts helped me through a most difficult time. Brings back the best thoughts of times we all had together.

Feb 03, 2011
Polly, just had Vern over to celebrate his 87th Birthday and he told us of Craigs passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Will always remember the great times at A&W conventions.

i was saddened to hear of craigs passing i saw american noise play live many times craig was always willing to talk about music with us between sets and was very humble when we told him american noise was clevelands best band . In my mind craig was the coolest rock star cleveland has ever had

I had the pleasure of having Craig as a part or my life for 40 years. He was there in good times and bad times. We shared many adventures together.As was stated at the memorial service it is hard to make new old friends.That is very true.

POLLY thanks for taking the time at the memorial service to talk to my son PATRICK.You were going thru a lot and yet you took time out for my son. That was something very Craig like.

I knew Craig through Tommy back from the 747/American Noise days. Never spent much time with him but when the 3 of us did get together we would have a blast. I know this to be true by the hangover the next morning (Ouch).Craig was always one of the best dressed musicians in Cleveland as well. Always had a classy style up to his last days. I had mentioned to Tommy that I would of wished Craig could of seen a American Noise reunion/tribute to one of the greatest albums and bands to come out of Cleveland. You may be gone Craig but your legacy lives on. Love and blessing to your family. Tommy and I will see you again when God comes callin for us then will both be in the band and you'll really have some American Noise then :-)

I was so sorry to hear about Craig's passing. I went through colon cancer myself 13 years ago, and was so sorry Craig did not survive.
Craig provided me with my first taste of LIVE rock and roll, and I knew him "back in the day." He was a great musician, and a kind person. He was always a gentleman, and I will remember that about him.
My deepest sympathy to Polly, Bruce, and everyone who loved him.

Dear Polly and family,

I will always remember the good times I had playing in the band with Craig and the time we met James Brown. I was so sorry to hear about his passing. His music and sole will live on.

Craig's memorial this past Saturday was amazing. It was a very, very good day at the end of a lot of very bad days. Polly, Bruce and the rest of the family put together an extensive, beautiful tribute and allowed me and a few others who had been very close to Craig to be a part of it. My love for you will reach across the universe and find you Craig. You ain't hidin from me my brother!

We are so very sorry for your loss, Polly.

I followed the bands from Decembers Children thru Amreican Noise.Pappy and his brother Ed turned me on to you guys. We loved to watch you perform and had lots of good times doing so. Thanks for the memories. ROCK ON !!

I first saw you with Decembers Children and followed the band thru American Noise. You probably don't remember me. Pappy was a good friend to my wife and me. We spent many memorable hours with him at his moms house in Newburgh Hts.May he rest in peace, also.Ed ,if you're still around, give me a call.John Kapferer 216=456=4098 ROCK ON!!!

I was shocked to read of Craig's passing. I and several of my friends were in the front lines of the Agora every Thursday night to see our band Circus. Craig, Bruce, Tommy, Phil...what a wonderful, exciting escape from reality. THey were wonderfully talented. Craig's beautiful , warm smile always lit up the stage. He really enjoyed his craft. To his family members, my prayers are with you all at this time. RIP Craig!

Craig; your music will live on forever. May you rest in peace and lead the band in Heaven. You truly are a Rocker.

Polly, Bruce and Balzer Family, So sorry to hear of Craig's passing, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Craig was a great guy. He lives on through his music.

From a big American Noise fan and race track friend.

If there's a Rock-n-Roll heaven, I know he'll have a hell of a band, yea! RIP guy, and we'll keep your musical inspiration alive forever!

I saw American Noise numerous times and I loved listening to Circus on 98.5. Craig's talents will be missed. Bruce I am sorry for your loss.

Polly,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. We are deeply saddened to hear of Craig's passing. Thinking back over the many years we have known the two of you Kathi and I cannot recall a time we saw Craig that he wasn't smiling, and that is how we will remember him.

I am sorry to hear of Craig's passing. Enjoyed watching and listening to Craig and Bruce thru the years in Ambleside, Circus, 747, American Noise. We had many good memories. Their album was one of the most played in my collection. Craig truly touched many lives with his music. I respected him as a musician. Cleveland did not get much better than that... My deepest sympathy to all of his family and may memories of him comfort you.

Polly - My heart goes out to you and your family. I know Craig was your best friend and soul mate. He was a good, kind person and hugely talented.

Polly, Bruce and the entire family, our memories of Craig and his caring, loving attitude will always rock on as a past member of the American Noise Family. Our sincere and deepest condolences to all. With our heart felt love, Bob and Bamm Bamm.

I feel a great loss and offer my deepest sympathies to Polly, Bruce, and everyone who will miss Craig. I was a friend from the December's Children to the American Noise days. I was so happy when American Noise played and sold out my club, The Music Machine, so many times. I love and play the American Noise album often--it's great rock n' roll and should have made the band big stars--maybe in the next life. God bless those here and those gone.

SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS,I NEVER SEEN AMERICAN NOISE LIVE,I REMEMBER RADIO PLAYING(AMERICAN NOISE), I WORK WITH HIS BANDMATE GREG HOLT & I GOT A COPY FROM HIM & LISTEN ALL THE TIME & I LOVE IT,WISH THEY COULD HAVE HAD A REUNION.

I saw American Noise over 25 times..I loved this band! May you rest in peace.

Polly - Bruce - so very very sorry. Words can't explain how my heart aches for both of you. The memories will help your pain....remember his kindness, his smiles, his dreams....and remember how you were the center of his life-his heart. Love diane

Polly, I am sure that this is not an easy time for you. I will keep you close in my heart and prayers. Craig was an excellent man and I am sure that he is, and will be with you, each step, of every day! Your friend Ben

In Memory of Craig Balzer. what a GREAT Musician !!! RIP

Craig was allways kind to a young kid backstage but when on stage he had that star pressence I wish Hollywood Blvd. would have slipped him that wild card and I guess that happened her name is Polly! With Deepest Sympathy to Bruce(also a nice guy)
and the family.

I alway enjoyed going to see American Noise back in the day...what a fabulous personality he had...my sympathies to his wife, family and friends!!' The picture of him and THAT smile...wow!!

Karen Healy

Polly, Our deepest sympathies, you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Dear Bruce and Polly
Brad and I send our deepest condolences to you both. Craig was a special, special guy. We have many great memories of selling Cleveland Browns' programs with "Hank and the boys" and many more wonderful memories of Ambleside, Circus and American Noise. Although we haven't been in touch for many years, he was a big part of our music enjoyment in Cleveland.........and our memories. Our love to both of you and all his family.

Polly, I only met Craig a few times and only truly knew him from his music (American Noise). The times I talked to him he was the most genuine and sincere musician I have ever met. Both he and his brother signed my album cover many, many years ago. It is still on the wall in my music room and I will hold it in even higher regard now. I was very sorry to hear of his passing. Cleveland was a better place because of Craig Balzer.

Harm Andrews
Warren, Ohio

I knew Craig not as a musician but as the President of Craig Specialty Advertising. He, Polly and Dan came into the largest restaurant company in the world and impressed us with positive energy, tenacity, excellence and above all, gold standard customer service. I will always remember Craig, with Polly, standing in front of our entire supply base in a conference in Hong Kong, leading us in our own company cheer. I'm smiling now....
Dianne Hart

RIP Craig, Thanks.

I didn't know Craig personally. I have certainly been touched by his musical talent over the years. I just wanted to pay my respect to him and his family.

Sincere condolences to Craig's family. Thursdays at the Agora with Circus, what great times. Another great musician in the Rock and Roll Heavens. He will be missed.

I didn't know Craig personally but, I loved watching him and the rest of the band play at Spanky's. What great music they played.

Rest In Peace Craig.

Polly,
I am so sorry for your loss of Craig. May he rest in peace with our Lord and may God's angels watch over you and your family especially during this difficult time.

I never really knew Craig very well, but seen American Noise perform many times and actually spoke with Craig at gigs. He was so very nice to any one who approached him. What a musician, and what stage presence he had to say the very least. His music has always been very close to me. Craig and his band influenced me what a musician should be. You will be so badly missed Craig. I am so very sorry for your loss Polly.

We have lost something of a very high price, in this era. We have lost not only a brilliant artist, writer and musician, but a fundamentally decent human bing. And the lives that he touched and the deceptively simple and innate ability that he had to enjoy life not only as it is, but life as it should be - that he taught us all by example - will keep his spirit and his memory and his music alive for a very, very long time. Craig did what we all dream to do. He left something greater than the sum of the parts. Rest, wise and kind friend. Put your feet up. You earned it.

Condolences to the Balzer family and good friends. I did not know Craig, but was/am a fan of American Noise, whose "debut" album is one of the best I have ever heard - to this day. Top notch passion & musicianship, (from every single band member) - led by Craig's heart & spirit. The music came from out of nowhere - but it will live forever (anyone with a heart could tell ya). God bless.

Witnessing and having enjoyed Craig's music during my CSU days, makes this news saddening to me.

Many times I saw his bands, December's Children, at the Agora and Circus, at Fat Glenns.

It was an innocent, exciting time.

Later, I remember Craig coming to the RCA offices numerous times and marketing his business.

May he rest in Eternity.

Polly, you have my deepest & heartfelt sympathy.

God's Peace.

Polly,
Your memories will be treasured and cherished that will help you in this diffuclt time. Prayers and thought go out to you, Betsy

Craig had that perpetual smile perfectly matched with his permanently positive attitude. You couldn’t help but be in a great mood when in his company. Every memory I have of Craig is a positive, uplifting one. He was a rare, quality person, a great friend, and a brilliant, creative musician.

My deepest sympathy to the Balzer family and everyone who knew him, He was a great musician and a great person. RIP CRAIG

I found my copy of "Sweet Talkin Woman" by December's Children", and gave it to Joe Madigan at WJCU, in University Hts. He should be playing it on Saturday between 3 and 5:30pm, on 88.7 FM.

Dear Balzer Family,
The Cleveland Music Scene has lost a great one !
I can remember back in the 70's at so many places.....I always enjoyed watching Craig, Bruce, Tommy playing...I worked for Rainbow Canyon and next to them Craig's bands were always a favorite. RIP CRAIG...YOU...WILL BE MISSED.. My thoughts and prayers are with you all

My most favorite Gigs were fronting American Noise at the Sahara Club some time in the mid 80's in a Band called The Band From U.N.C.L.E. These guys were always my idols (Craig and Bruce)and what an honor it was!!

Polly & Bruce,
My deepest sympathies on losing Craig. I'll continue to keep you in my prayers.

Cheryl Earle

My deepest sympathy to Polly and Bruce. Craig leaves behind many fond memories, in all our hearts.

Craig was a wonderful person, a great musician and a good friend. He will be missed.

R.I.PEACE<3

RIP Craig. I was in college when American Noise was hot and we all had the album. I remember bumming a ride to Univ of Toledo to see them in concert. Craig is part of the soundtrack of our youth and will live on with his music.

Though I didn't know Craig personally,
I felt like I did. Throughout the 80's I think I saw American Noise more times than anyone (except for maybe a roadie). It was magic. The best live band I've ever had the pleasure of seeing/hearing. Craig & Bruce touched a lot of people with their music, performance & graciousness. To top all things off, it's apparent Craig was a wonderful all around nice guy. Thanks Craig for enriching so many others lives! My condolences to the Balzer family & friends.

To The Balzer Family: I remember Craig from back in the 70's with that smile and the music he so loved. It was a pleasure to watch him and Bruce play together. They were great. My thoughts and prayers are with you. The music world has lost another good one.

Polly
He loved you so much!
Bruce
He loved you so much!
DS

I was a fan of Craig's band Circus in the mid 70s. They played at Fairview HS auditorium in 1974 to a big crowd. It is sad to see one of the rock stars of my teenage years pass. Condolences to all Craig's family and friends.

SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOST MAY .MAY GOD BE WITH YOU .



CHUCK ZINGALE THE PLATO

Dear Polly,

Craig was the rarest of all things on this earth--a genuine human being. He met everyone and every challenge of his life with a warm smile and a generous heart. It was impossible not to love him. Even in his most difficult days he thought of others. It was simply his nature to do so. I feel blessed to have known him and blessed to have you in my life. You are in my heart and in my prayers.

My condolences to Craig's family and loved ones. Thirty years ago, Craig was the "Rock Star" that I wanted to be. Not just because of his talent, but because he took the time to chat with a "kid" who just wanted to meet him. One of a kind and a great inspiration to a young musician. He will be missed.

Craig and Bruce were always my idols growing up. I would not be in the career I am in today if it were not for them. Craig will be deeply missed but his music will live on. I will keep him and his family in my prayers.

Craig's loved ones,
You are in my thoughts & Prayers. He was always kind to me & those I saw him come in contact with.

Polly,

My heartfelt condolences to You and the extended family. I spent many enjoyable evenings watching Craig in various bands. He was one of those persons that you meet in life, that you wished you had gotten to know a little bit better.

Polly,

My heart breaks for you. Whenever Craig smiled, the light in his eyes was amazing. Whenever I think of him, it will be with that smile on his face and that light in his eyes.

Polly,
We are very sorry to hear about Craig.We shared some great times over the years.Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Mick & Ginger Sabol, Wake Forest NC

Another angel sings in God's choir. My condolences to the family.

Polly-my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Craig touched all who met him with passion and honesty. I will remember and treasure our shared adventures forever. God bless you.
Jim Buckley-Clarkston, Michigan

Polly, I am so sorry to hear this. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Craig.

Polly, My thoughts and prayers are with you. Craig will always be in my heart.

Polly, I am praying that you find comfort in the promise of eternal life in Christ. I am grateful to have known Craig and been a very small part of his life and his music. My deepest sympathies are with you and family. Phil Alexander

Polly, David and I are so sorry to hear about Craig. I can't even tell you how sadded we are for your loss. I always enjoyed the times we spent together. You are in our thoughts and prayers. If you need us for anything please let us know. We love you! David and Rosanne Novak

Polly, we offer our condolences for your great loss. We have been praying for you and Craig and will continue to do so. We will miss him dearly.

Dan & Sharon Ritosa

Polly - I have so many wonderful memories of times together with you and Craig! What a blessing to witness Craig's determination in climbing Diamond Head Crater! You and your family are in my prayers - much love and many strong hugs!

It is with a truly heavy heart that we've heard about Craig's passing. May you find comfort in the love of those around you and memories of a life well led. We will miss Craig more than we can say.
Andy & Stephanie Mosca
Pennie Nero
A&W of Rhode Island

Polly you are in my heart, thoughts and prayers...Craig was a kind, fun and warm hearted man who will be sadly missed but fondly remembered always.
With Love, Lori

Polly, We are praying for you ... praying that Jesus warps you in his arms and surrounds you with love, and kindness, and patience while He shelters your tender heart as you take on this time of separation from Craig. Our deepest sympathies, Suzana (Ritosa), and Brian Miller

May God go with him and we all now have an extra guardian angel to watch over us

We are very sorry to hear of Craig's passing. May he be with the Lord now and never suffer again. His music will always live on and the good memories of him will always be with us. Our thoughts and prayers for all of the family members during this time of sorrow.

Polly, my heart is with you, now and always. Love, becky