AUGUST 1, 1930 – APRIL 6, 2021
Richard was born August 1, 1930, in Chicago, IL, to Ida and Emil Balde. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Butler, PA, where he lived until joining the United States Airforce in 1948 to serve in the Korean War effort. Richard served his time in Greenland and England and was discharged as a Staff Sergeant in 1952. Richard and Patricia (Fisher) were married in Butler, PA, in 1952 and started their family.
His long career in retail store management for Montgomery Wards, JC Penney’s and Joann Fabric took them to New York, Pennsylvania, and finally to Sandusky, OH, where they resided for over 50 years. Richard and Patricia were longtime members of the Sandusky Elks club, where they made so many wonderful lifetime friendships. Richard was Exalted Ruler of the Elks 285 from 1975-1976 and a member for 55 years. Golfing and fishing were his favorite pastimes throughout life. He loved playing golf, watching golf, and even worked part-time at Woussickett Golf Course in his retirement. He played his last game of golf at the age of 89 with his senior league in Fort Collins. Richard was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.
Spending time with family was his greatest joy in life. He took great pride in all the milestones reached by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was exceedingly proud of each accomplishment. Richard was preceded in death by his son, Richard Balde Jr. in 2010 and beloved wife, Patricia in 2018. He is survived by his three children Deborah Frank (Richard) of Stow, OH, Barbara Thomas of Fort Collins, CO, and Timothy Balde (Patty) of Huron, OH; nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Patricia Larkins of Huron, OH and his sister, Vilma Tomosovich of Renfrew, PA. Richard will be returning home to his final resting place, Meadow Green Memorial Park Cemetery in Huron,OH.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, April 21st at 11:00.
