Balzer, George (1912-1972)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary 1972 Nov 3 p. 31

Birth date: 1912 Aug 23

text of obituary:

GEORGE HENRY BALZER

George H. Balzer was born in Samara, Russia, August 23, 1912. In 1924 he emigrated to Canada with his parents, arrived at Rosthern, and in 1925 settled at Colonsay, where he farmed with his parents and brothers, At the age of 18 he accepted Christ as his Savior, was baptized and joined the fellowship of the Mennonite Brethren Church at Watrous.

In 1935 he married Louise Fast. In 1940 concern for the spiritual nurture of their children led them to a dairy farm at Dalmeny where they could be closer to the church, In 1948 he moved to Saskatoon where he spent the major part of his life as a furniture salesman.

In May of 1969 the first indication of a coronary ailment was noted resulting in the curtailment of his working career in December of 1970, After several heart attacks, heart surgery was made. Though the operation seemed successful, he died on September 23, 1972, at the age of sixty years.

Throughout his life he had a deep desire to serve God, and was active as a deacon, council member, Sunday School Superintendent and in other capacities for many years in the Central Mennonite Brethren Church. He was much appreciated and deeply loved by fellow members in the church.

Rejoicing in the memory of his victorious Christian life, yet mourning his absence are his wife Louise, children Elmer and Irene Dyck, Walter and Elfrieda Toews both of Saskatoon; Wilf and Ruth Goertzen, Kamloops; William and Rosella Vanee, New Westminster; Dave and Elaine Balzer, Abbotsford; Elaine annd Sheryll at home; mother-in-law Mrs. Elizabeth Fast; thirteen grandchildren; five brothers and two sisters; also many of her relatives and friends. He was predeceased by one brother.