Christopher "Lou" Balon

BALON—Christopher “Lou”, 61, Johnstown, passed away on March 25, 2022, in Johnstown after a courageous battle with cancer. Born March 12, 1961, in Johnstown, son of Charles J. and Theresa (Catalfano) Balon. Preceded in death by father; and sister, Donna L. Mapes. Survived by mother; brothers and sister, Charles (Janet), John (Vicki), Deborah (Lester Jr.), McDaniel, Richard and best friend, Meghan, David (Linda), Edward, Jeff (Shannon), Randy, Ronald (Cathy), Joseph (Jennifer), Barry; and brother-in-law, Gary Mapes; nieces and nephews, Scott (Brenda) Balon, Julie (Rodney) Gestes, , Karri Woods, Chad (Beth) Balon, Wendi Sokira, Dominique Mapes, Melanie (Alan) Bentley, Corey, Ashley and Michael Balon, Apryl (Mike) Loser, Emily, Anthony (Caitlyn), Chelsea (Michael), Karly (Brandon), Alec and Erica Balon; great-nieces and great-nephews; special cousin Lisa Spadaro and special niece and Godchild,  Erin Balon. Lou was a graduate of Vo-Tech School. He was an Army veteran of the Gulf War and a Purple Heart Recipient.  Lou was employed for 27 years as a mechanic for the United States Postal Service in Johnstown. He was an avid mechanic who loved to tinker in the garage with old cars. Lou had a love for antiques and could not pass up a good auction. He had a passion for motorcycles and bicycles having ridden from Washington, DC to Pittsburgh along with many regional trails. He was known to be a compassionate and caring person with all people he dealt with. Visitation 3 to 8 pm Wednesday Mar. 30 at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland where Vigil Service will be held. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 Thursday Mar. 31, at St. Benedict Catholic Church, Geistown. Fr. David S. Peles, Pastor. Committal with military rites by Marine Corps League in North Cross section at Richland Cemetery. (Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com)