Joseph "Mike" Balcer

Josephy Michael "Mike" Balcer

January 3, 1946 – November 11, 2025

Joseph Michael "Mike" Balcer, 79, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025. Born in Ponca City, Oklahoma, on January 3, 1946, to Joseph and Adelaide Balcer, Mike grew up with a deep sense of kindness, service, and humor that carried throughout his life.

After graduating from St. Mary's Catholic School in Ponca City, Mike proudly served six years in the United States Air Force, where he was part of the Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, aiding soldiers injured during during wartime, including the Vietnam War. During his service, he met the love of his life, Patricia "Pat" Balcer. The two were married on June 7, 1969, at Clinton Sherman Air Force Base and went on to share more than 56 wonderful years together.

Following his time in the Air Force, Mike pursued nursing and built a long and respected career as a nurse anesthetist in Oklahoma City. His compassion and steady nature made him a trusted presence to both patients and colleagues alike.

Outside of work, Mike was devoted to his family. He loved coaching his sons, Robert and David, in soccer, baseball, and in life. He spent countless hours traveling to watch them play ball-from little league fields to college stadiums-and was always their biggest supporter. He also cherished time with his grandchildren, creating memories filled with laughter, stories, and love.

Mike had many interests that brought him joy throughout his life. He had a strong passion for model trains and coin collecting, and he enjoyed the care and patience those hobbies inspired. In addition, he also spent countless hours working on jigsaw puzzles on the dining room table which he loved doing with his family. He was also incredibly handy and was always willing to help with projects or repairs-whatever the task, Mike could be counted on to lend a hand. And often times, he would team up with his brother-in-laws Don and Larry.

He had a wonderful sense of humor and a smile that could light up a room. He loved to make people laugh and was always ready with a good joke. His laughter, kindness, and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Balcer; son Robert (Suzy) Balcer and their children Owen and Truett; and David (Courtney) Balcer and their son Brooks. He is also survived by his sister Carolyn (Don) Keeney along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Adelaide Balcer; his sister, Martha Joe Ogg and her husband Larry Ogg; and his brother, Robert Balcer.

Services will be held on Saturday, November 15, at 10am at Resthaven Funeral Home located at 500 SW 104th Street in Oklahoma City with a graveside service immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Mike's memory.