Obituary of Albert Balasch

Albert Balasch, beloved husband of Mary Elizabeth, of Calgary passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2009 at the age of 70 years. Albert was born on a homestead in Stowlea, SK, and grew up on a farm near Barthel, SK, where he developed his love of hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. He graduated from St. Paul’s High School in Saskatoon, SK and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Saskatchewan in 1961. Albert and Mary were married in 1963, and resided in Calgary since then. He worked in the oilpatch for forty-seven years with Texaco Exploration, Dome Petroleum, and in a variety of his own ventures. Most recently, he worked in India and Trinidad. Albert lived his life with energy and enthusiasm. He was dedicated to his family with whom he had many happy times including such activities as camping, fishing, and both playing and watching sports. His three grandchildren were a special joy to him. Albert loved a good party and always enjoyed gathering with extended family and his many friends. Besides his loving wife Mary, Albert is survived by his sons Jason (Heidi-Lynne) and Aaron; daughter Kara (Paul Houghton); grandchildren Colton and Clara Balasch, and Maya Houghton; his brother Peter; sisters Mary Weiers, Lydia McLeod, and Helen Clark; brother-in-law Walter Clark; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Pauline and John Balasch and by sisters Leona Andersen, Mollie Reimer, and Monica Balasch. Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers and Tributes at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, (10827 – 24th Street S.W.) on Monday, June 22, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, (10827 – 24th Street S.W.) on Tuesday, June 23, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada, 110, 1202 Centre St. S.E., Calgary, AB T2G 5A5 Telephone: (403) 263-5300 or (toll-free): 1 (866) 547 – LIFE (5433), www.lls.org/canada. In living memory of Albert Balasch, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.