Dr. William R. Balash

Dr. William R. Balash, 90, of Natrona Heights, passed away Tuesday, April 13, 2021. Dr. Balash was a highly regarded physician and tireless educator who practiced internal medicine for over 50 years in the Alle-Kiski Valley. In his private practice based in Natrona Heights, he cared for hundreds of patients from around the region. Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Balash touched many lives, always treating his patients with kindness and compassion. He relished his role as an educator and mentor, and his passion for teaching was evident with every colleague, student and patient he encountered. He was a familiar and respected face in the hallways of Allegheny Valley Hospital, where he held several leadership positions, including president of the medical staff. He retired in 2010 but always kept studying and maintained his medical license until last December. Dr. Balash was born and raised in Leechburg, the son of Irene and Joseph Balash. He became interested in health care at a young age. After attending pharmacy school for a year, he opted to study chemistry. He obtained a bachelor of science degree in 1952 from Allegheny College, where he was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa honors fraternity. Dr. Balash was a proud alumnus of Georgetown University School of Medicine, where he obtained his medical degree in 1956 and later was a member of the council to the dean of the medical school. He never lost an opportunity to mention and praise his beloved alma mater. Upon getting his medical degree, he completed residencies in internal medicine at Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, and the Veteran's Administration Hospital, Pittsburgh. In 1961, he completed a clinical fellowship under Dr. T.S. Danowski at the University of Pittsburgh in endocrinology and metabolism, a specialty in which he became a sought-after expert. He entered private practice in 1961. During the next five decades, he became a cornerstone of the community and led countless fundraising projects and educational programs. His many accomplishments include receiving a distinguished service award and an honorary doctor of science degree from Washington & Jefferson College and a fellowship from the American College of Physicians. In his spare time, Dr. Balash enjoyed golfing, traveling and spending time at his cottage along the Allegheny River. He was not shy about his love of cooking, always telling patients and colleagues about his culinary adventures while making Sunday brunch. Dr. Balash is survived by his wife of 66 years, Theola; daughter, Lisa, of Natrona Heights; son, William Joseph, of Hobe Sound, Fla. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph. A private service was held. Memorial contributions can be made to Washington & Jefferson College, 600 N. Lincoln St., Washington, PA 15301, Attention: Balash Scholarship Fund. Arrangements are under the care of CICHOLSKI-ZIDEK FUNERAL HOME INC., Natrona Heights, PA 15065, 724-224-8688. To send an online condolence, please visit www.cicholski-zidekfh.com.