Kenneth R Balz

Kenneth R. Balz, 87, passed peacefully on September 25, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born February 1, 1938, to the late Edward Balz Sr. and Annabel (Nall) Balz. He retired from the Courier Journal, where he worked as a master pipefitter, and served our country in the U.S. Army. He was a member of Ralph Avenue Baptist Church. Ken was a storyteller at heart and never shied from talking with everyone he met. An incredible grandfather, he shared stories of each of them eagerly – whether prompted or not. Ken could fix anything and was happiest when he was sharing that talent to help others. He cared for no one more than his wife and devoted his life to making hers the best it could be. Ken impacted the lives of more people than he knew, and his passing will leave a great void in the hearts of many. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, sister Barbara Grant and brothers Edward and John Balz. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Janice (Allen) Balz; sons Michael (Denise), Steven (Brenda) and Kevin (Amy) Balz; grandchildren Mike (Nicki), Josh, Nic, Joe, Jacob and Jordan Balz, Krissy Daniel (Brian) and Jazmine Keith (Ish); great-grandchildren Wyatt and Cooper Balz, Radley and Kensley Daniel and Eli and Caliee Keith; and sisters Bonnie Downs (Gil) and Jeanie Mason (Bill). The family would like to extend special thanks to his caregivers: Michelle Bright, Tammi Overall and Kenzi Peyton. Funeral services will be Friday, October 3, 2025, at noon at Owen Funeral Home, 5317 Dixie Highway, with burial to follow in Louisville Memorial Gardens West. Visitation will be Thursday from 4–8 p.m. at the funeral home.