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James W. Balfanz
1954 - 2018
James W. Balfanz
1954 - 2018
Obituary
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BORN
1954
DIED
2018
James Balfanz Obituary
CHILLICOTHE - James W. Balfanz, 64, of Chillicothe passed away on Wednesday, October 10, 2018, at his home.
James (Jimmy) was born on Feb. 22, 1954, in Naperville, the son of James W. and Dorothy (Gadtke) Balfanz. He married Judith A. Crawford-Madl on Sept. 9, 1989, in Brown Deer, WI.
Surviving are his wife, Judith A. Balfanz of Chillicothe; one daughter, Jamie Balfanz of Chillicothe; one step-daughter, Sheila (Dean) Thierfelder of Waukesha, WI; one step-son, Richard (Michelle) Madl of Sparland; five step-grandchildren, Melanie, Morgan, Isabelle, LilliAnne and Savanna; one brother, Dennis (Donna) Balfanz of Millington; two sisters, Denise Pertell and Bonny Balfanz, both of Warrenville; and two nephews, Trevor and Clayton (Lori) Pertell.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one step-son, Steven Madl.
Jimmy, after graduating from Morrison Institute of Technology with an Engineering Degree, started his own excavating business up near Chicago. Years later, he worked at Hyster Co. in Kewanee. Jimmy was a Senior Development Engineer and Service Tool Consultant for Caterpillar. He was a member of the Chillicothe Sportsman's Club. He also enjoyed airplanes and flying with his friends out of the Lacon Airport. His love for cars and motorcycles brought him many lasting friendships through racing at Cordova Dragway with the unforgettable Purple Pinto. To him a stranger was only a friend he hadn't met yet and everywhere he went, he gained a new friend. Jimmy was always helping others, always active and on the go. His positive energy lifted everyone up. He will be missed by many and is loved by all.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, from 2 to 5 p.m., followed by a prayer service at Weber-Hurd Funeral Home in Chillicothe, IL.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
January 10, 2019
So sorry to hear of Jimmy's passing. We went to kindergarden at Beebe School. He was such a nice boy. My family knew his family too. Marie Adamovich Lichter
Fred Toenniges
October 23, 2018
An honorary member of the Naperville Street Racers Association. Well deserved and always had a smile for someone who needed it...like me. Thanks for great memories and being kind. See ya at the finish line later...
Fred Toenniges
October 23, 2018
An honorary member of the Naperville Street Racers Association...since 1971. Honored to call you my friend...you always had something nice to say to me in school. - Fred Toenniges
Bob Rodden
October 22, 2018
I was so sorry to hear about Jimmy. He was a good friend and coworker. He used to stop by my desk and talk about life and work when he had time. Jimmy always had time for people. And as far as the work ethic, he was amazing, and always accommodating. He would immediately follow up on questions we had in the D&A lab about Tooling we needed. He was a good person, and I will miss him.
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Ida Hagman
October 18, 2018
Dear Bonny and Denise,
My condolences on the loss of your brother. I could tell from his obituary that he shared your friendly, helpful character. God bless you and your family as you send him on his final journey.
With love,
Ida
Tina Ramirez
October 16, 2018
I am so sorry to hear of Jimmy's passing. I met Jimmy while working the medical department at Caterpillar LC. He brought a light with him wherever he went. He was truly a pleasure to talk to and always managed to brighten my day. To have that impact on people is a true blessing and I feel blessed to have known Jimmy.
Jodi Bouris
October 15, 2018
Dear Judy, Jamie and Family,
I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband and your dad. I hope you will be comforted by your wonderful memories of the good times with him and please know my thoughts and prayers are with you. With deepest sympathy and love,
Jodi Bouris
Peg Gregory Ross
October 15, 2018
Jimmy and I went to grade school together at Beebe School in Naperville. He was a great guy.
Simon & Teresa Bishop
October 14, 2018
I'm so sad to hear of Jim's passing as he was such a great work colleague-always a great disposition even when things were not so good, no matter the question or problem Jim would always have time for you. When he explained it was time to retire I couldn't have been happier for him. His legacy in the Tool Group will always be remembered especially from the folks in Contamination Control who understand the impact of Jim's contribution to said initiative.
Our most heart felt condolences.
Simon Bishop
Retired Caterpillar
October 14, 2018
With deepest sympathy, may the power of prayer ease your sorrow, give you peace and provide much comfort for you during this difficult time. Matthew 21:22
Rick Spellious
October 14, 2018
To the family of Jim, my condolences and I am very sorry for your loss. Jim was a good man and we will all miss him.
Judy Kline Murphy
October 14, 2018
So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. We were good friends when we both worked for CSTG at Caterpillar. Jim always had a smile on his face and brightened up a room. Rest in peace, Jim.
Richard Parkinson
October 11, 2018
May this candle light your way with our heavenly father where you will find peace. You were a great friend who will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.
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1107 North Fourth Street #1505, Chillicothe, IL 61523
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