Leland Francis "Lee" Balch

9/6/1945 - 7/17/2025

Mystic - Leland Francis Balch, known to friends and family as Lee or Butch, passed away peacefully July 17, 2025, at Pendleton Health and Rehabilitation in Mystic. He was 79.

Born in Groton, Sept. 6, 1945, Lee graduated from Robert E. Fitch High School and went straight to work at the Day Publishing Company, where he spent his career as a compositor for The New London Day. He retired in 2005, after decades of dedicated service.

Lee was the life of the party, always ready with a story, a laugh, and a twinkle in his eye. He was a longtime coach and former president of New London Little League, and a lifetime member of the New London Lodge of Elks.

He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and New York Giants. He loved golf and had a mean handicap, playing courses throughout Connecticut and Rhode Island - and he never turned down a cold beer after a round. Lee also enjoyed fishing, especially going out on his cousin Chet's boat, as well as fishing in local lakes and streams.

He is survived by his daughters, Doreen Schaen (Randy) and Leah Eldridge (Craig); his son, Jeffery Balch; and his grandchildren: Julian Saunders, Nicholas and Victoria Schaen, and Natalie and Grace Eldridge. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends in the area and across the country. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ann K. Balch, in 2007, and by his parents, Lee H. Balch and Frances G. Burnett.

Lee's last days were spent surrounded by family. When talking about the end of his life, he offered one of his classic lines: "It is what it is." Oh, so true.

Family and friends are invited to attend the graveside service to be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, at St. Mary's Cemetery in New London. There are no calling hours. Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 12 Ocean Avenue, New London is assisting the family.

He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.