Arlyn Balda

Arlyn Balda, 87, of Peru, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2024. 

Memorial services will be 5:00 PM Wednesday September 18 at First Congregational Church of Peru with Pastor Mark Harder officiating. Visitation will in the church on Wednesday from 3:00 PM until time of services. The Hurst Funeral Home in La Salle has been entrusted with his services.

Arlyn was born in La Salle on October 6, 1936 to Joe and Lillian (Olin) Balda. He spent his life dedicated to his family, work, and passions. On May 4, 1957, Arlyn married the love of his life, Nancy (Stanhouse), with whom he shared 67 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and cherished memories. Arlyn was a devoted father who coached his kids in baseball and softball, never missing a single game, band or choir function, or event. He was always there to cheer them on and support them in all their endeavors.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Arlyn was a huge fan of the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bears, passionately supporting his teams through every season.

Arlyn was happiest surrounded by his family and working with his hands in his wood shop, creating treasured pieces for his family. When he wasn’t wood working, he could be found at his favorite place on earth—the family home at the Lake of the Ozarks. There, he loved to fish, sit on the deck smoking his pipe, and spend time with his children and grandchildren, sharing stories and lots of laughter.

Arlyn is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy (Stanhouse); his children, Terry Balda (Lissa) of Braidwood, Tom Balda (Mary) of Hawthorne Woods, Kathy Weger (Bill) of Wauconda, and Sharon Boucher (Jeff) of Mackinaw. He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Apryl Balda, Holly Balda, Ashley Lamich (Danny), Trisha Bush (Adam), Skyler Cairns (Kyle), Sydney Strom (Spencer), Nick Boucher, and Kenedi Boucher, as well as his great-grandchildren, Aubree Skinner, Garrett Ryle, Navy Strom, and Maverick Cairns.

Arlyn was preceded in death by his parents, his grandson Peyton Boucher, brother Vernon Balda, sister-in-law Joanne Balda, one niece Susan Balda, and one nephew Darren Nawa.

Arlyn’s warm heart and welcoming spirit touched everyone he met. His love for his family was evident in everything he did, and his legacy of kindness, generosity, and love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

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