Dr. Edward Allen Balli

Dr. Edward Allen Balli, a longtime physician remembered for his faith, love and compassionate nature towards his family, friends and relatives, died Tuesday, February 19, 2008 in Dallas of cancer. He was 52. Dr. Balli was born in Corpus Christi, Texas but spent most of his life growing up in California. He joined the United States Marine Corps when he was 18 and spent a distinguished tour serving as a radio operator in Camp Pendleton, California. Once completing his service to our country, he returned home to the San Antonio area. Dr. Balli received his Bachelors of Science from St. Mary's University in San Antonio, before attending medical school at the University of Texas Health Science Center. Dr. Balli went on to complete his residency in McAllen, Texas. After completing his residency, he joined Gonzaba Medical Group as a family practice physician in San Antonio, Texas. In 1992, Dr. Balli opened his private practice in Seguin, Texas and began contributing to our community as a physician and friend to all who met him. Dr. Balli's friends, relatives and colleagues described him as a dedicated and caring person who was always willing to help touch someone's life in a caring and positive way. Dr. Balli was well known for his missionary work in Honduras, where each year he gave countless hours of medical care and spiritual guidance to those who needed it most during his free time. Dr. Balli is also remembered for his endearing faith and ability to see the best in everyone. He was loved by all who met him. His work, his faith, and most of all his smile, will never be forgotten. Dr. Balli is preceded in death by his daughter, Angel Balli, with whom he is now walking hand-in-hand. He is survived by his loving wife and greatest companion Linda Balli, whom he always referred to, as the person that finally made him feel complete. His daughter and closest friend Annie Kimble is just like him, sharing a bond and unique connection that can only be described as everlasting. His son-in-law Ray Kimble was like a son to him, always there to confide in and share his love of faith and search for knowledge. His daughter Kelsey Balli always had a way to make him smile and feel the love of a child through it all. His son Nicolas Balli brought him the joys of father-hood, the feelings of accomplishment, the love of music, the fascination of science and the legacy of his life. His son Justin Gelbhar helped him see the world as a sunny day no matter what rainy days life had in store. Ignacio Balli was his father, friend and buddy; they shared the gift of music, the discussion of philosophy and the love of the outdoors. Esperanza Juarez was his mother and spiritual counterpart through many times. His granddaughter Athena Kimble shared a closeness with him that already made her want to follow in her grandfather's footsteps to help people as a physician. His grandson Jayden Kimble always kept him feeling as youthful and playful as ever. Dr. Balli is also survived by his brother Donnie Balli; sisters Anna Martinez and Debra Balli; and numerous nephews and cousins. A memorial service will be held Monday, Feb. 25, at the Seguin-Guadalupe County Coliseum at 1 p.m. Memorial tributes can be made on-line at www.mem.com. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home in Seguin, Texas.