Harold E. Balz

Harold E. Balz, 88, of Athens, passed away with family by his side Sunday, December 17, 2017 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Harold was born April 23, 1929 in Athens, WI, son of the late Arthur and Adeline (Hoge) Balz. On August 30, 1952 he married Lois Ziegel at Salem Lutheran Church in the town of Hamburg; she survives him. At age 17, Harold began working for Pauly Cheese as a dedicated semi-truck driver and stayed with the company through multiple ownership transitions (Swift, Beatrice Cheese, ConAgra) until his retirement at age 66, though that didn't last long and Harold worked many more years driving for Peter Trucking. When he wasn't driving truck, Harold enjoyed his family, deer hunting, bowling,and took pride in caring for his yard. Harold helped out and regularly attended Trinity Lutheran Church, typically followed by brunch at the cafe. Harold proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1951 until 1953, where he worked his way up to an infantry sergeant. He was an active participant in his local American Legion and, in 2013, had the privilege of traveling to Washington, DC with his brother, Arlon, on the Honor Flight. Survivors include his wife, Lois Balz, Athens; his children, Curtis Balz, Wausau, Ginger (Ronald Sr.) Weller, Kronenwetter, Fay (Hank) Wozniak, Wausau, and Kristi (Jerry) Redmann, Athens; six grandchildren, Chad Balz, Shawn (Kim) Balz, Troy Wozniak, Mitchell Wozniak, Amber (Jacob) Maahs, and Talena (Andy) Bliven; four great grandchildren, Madelyn and Nora Balz, Ian Wozniak, and Hayden Maahs; his siblings, Clarence Balz, Athens and Arlon (Darlene) Balz, Phillips; as well as many nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m. Friday, December 22, 2017 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Athens followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m.. Reverend Mark Schwalenberg will officiate. Burial will be in Athens Lutheran Cemetery, where full military honors will be conducted by the American Legion Chapman-Belter Post #4, Athens. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Athens is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.