William Balash

William Balash, 88
Struthers – A Mass of Christian Burial will be said by Rev. Michael D. Balash for his uncle William Balash, 88 on Fri. Jan. 23, 2015 in Christ Our Savior Parish, St. Nicholas Church in Struthers at 11am. "Bill" was born Feb. 14, 1926 in Hubbard, a son of Peter and Anna Karpovich Balash. He was a 1943 graduate of Hubbard High School and a World War II U.S. Navy Veteran who served from 1944 to 1946. From 1951-1955, Bill was the owner of Dairyland in Hubbard and in 1995 he retired from the General Electric Niles Plant after 33 years of service. He enjoyed his grandchildren and family gatherings. Gardening, skiing, and gambling vacations were among his favorite hobbies. Bill is survived by two sons; Lawrence (Kim Gandy) Balash and Bill (Marsha) Balash, a daughter; Jane (Tom) Shelley, three grandsons; Jason Balash and Jeff and Chris Balash, a granddaughter; Jessica Shelley, two sisters; Pauline Longo and Helen Mirkovich, two brothers-in-law; Ron Stefanick and Jerome Macala, a sister-in-law; Dorothy Balash and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife; the former Rita H. Macala whom he married Nov. 24, 1951, died March 13, 2006, three sisters; Mary Baldine, Julia Bolchalk, and Ann Stefanick, and two brothers; Steve Balash and Michael Balash. Family and friends may gather a half hour before the mass in church with burial to follow in St. John Cemetery. Per Bill's request, in lieu of flowers contributions in his name can be sent to Hospice of the Valley or another charity of the donor's choice. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice House for the wonderful care given to Bill.

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