Charles J. Balon

Balon, Charles J., “Charlie”, 85, of Richland Township, went to be with the Lord on March 23, 2013 peacefully at home. Born on November 5, 1927 in Johnstown. Son of Martin G. and Suzzana (Majerczik) Balon. Preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Donna L. Mapes; brothers, John, Frank and Martin and sisters, Barbara, Mary, Rose and Anna. Charles was the last surviving member of his parents family. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Theresa M. (Catalfano) Balon, Richland Township; children, Charles (Janet), John (Vicki), Deborah (Lester Jr.) McDaniel, Richard (Margaret), David, Edward, Jeff (Shannon), Randy, Ronald, Christopher, Joseph (Jennifer), and Barry (Paula); son-in-law, Gary Mapes; grandchildren, Scott (Brenda) Balon, Julie (Rodney) Gestes, Erin Balon, Karri (Willie) Woods, Chad (Beth) Balon, Wendi Sokira, Dominique Mapes, Melanie (Alan) Bentley, Corey, Ashley, and Michael Balon, Apryl (Mike) Loser, Emily, Anthony, Chelsea, Karly, Alec, and Erica Balon; great grandchildren, Tanner, Courtnie, Briley and Zachary Gestes, Danielle Balon, Tyler, Cassidy and Liam Woods, Cole and Bryce Balon, Robbie and Josh Sokira, Evan and Erin Bentley, Layla Balon and Grayson Loser and numerous nieces and nephews, including special nephews, William (Helen) McVicker and Daniel (Jill) Palov. Charlie retired from Bethlehem Steel after 42 years of service. He was a former student and Alter Server at St. Stephens Catholic Church and current member of St. Benedict Catholic Church; former member of the Slovak Band Hall and the Richland American Legion, Post #849. Charlie enjoyed working in his basement work shop, hunting and caring for his fish. He looked forward to family gatherings and always had a joke to tell. Charlie will be sadly missed by all of us. Friends will be received from 2-8 P.M. on Tuesday the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, where Vigil for the deceased will be held. Funeral Mass will be held at 1 P.M. on Wednesday at St. Benedict Catholic Church, Fr. David S. Peles, Pastor. Committal will be at Richland Cemetery. The family suggests contributions be directed to the American Cancer Society, Central Region, Cambria Unit, 35 Budfield Street, Johnstown, PA 15904-3213 or charity of one’s choice in memory of Charles. On line condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.