Gerald Lee Balko

Gerald “Jerry” Lee Balko, age 60, passed away on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN. He was born on March 23, 1964, in Cumberland, WI, to Arnold and Phyllis Balko. Jerry Graduated from Cumberland High School and enlisted in the USAF for 6 years. While enlisted, he was introduced to his wife, Kelly (Kolaszewski). They were married on June 25, 1988, in Stephanson, MI. 

Jerry is survived by his wife, Kelly Balko of Saint Charles, MN; son, Kyle Balko of Eau Claire, WI; daughter, Jennifer (Nathan) Brandt of Fountain City, WI; and son, Christpher (Ashley) Balko of Winona, MN. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Beau, Riley, Adalynn, and Freya Brandt, whom he adored. Jerry is also survived by his siblings, Kathy (Ken) Miller of Barron, WI, Tom (Shirl) Balko of Cumberland, WI, and Dave Balko of Almena, WI, along with many nephews, nieces, family and friends. Jerry was preceded in death by both of his parents, Arnold and Phyllis Balko and in-laws, Peter and Linda Kolaszewski. Jerry held many jobs over his lifetime, most recently being self-employed. 

The visitation and funeral will be at Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Saint Charles, MN, on Saturday, December 7, 2024, with visitation starting at 9am and the Funeral Mass to follow at 11am. Visitation will also be held the night before at Church on Friday, December 6, 2024, 6pm-8pm. Jerry will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery in St. Charles with Military Honors. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to support the family with unexpected funeral and medical expenses in Jerry’s honor. 

Hoff Funeral Home – St. Charles is assisting the family. 

A livestream of Jerry's service is available at the link below. 

https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTczMzE3MjM4NDMzOTQ3MiZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==