Henry Bruce Balfanz, second child of George Balfanz and Fredericka (Rowekamp) Balfanz, was born 7/6/1954 in Bloomington, IL because, according to Henry, his parents wanted him to be as close to Normal (IL) as possible. Henry developed a love of the limelight, acting and singing in productions from his teens to his 50’s. He worked as a disc jockey and in 1976 graduated from Southern Illinois University (Go Salukis!)
Henry started his career in advertising at WEEK TV in Peoria, climbing the ladder of success, from sales to managing radio stations and newspapers throughout the Midwest.
Henry met his wife, Pam (Yentis) Balfanz, and they had two boys, Nicholas and Nathan Balfanz. Henry was a dutiful father; coaching, chauffeuring, and feeding his kids too many sweets.
Henry divorced midlife and reveled decorating his house with posters from Marathons he ran, Cubs memorabilia, books, records, and enough portraits of Abraham Lincoln to make museum curators jealous. Henry also loved clocks, which spoke to his steadfast, dependable nature.
Henry would say, “On time is 10 minutes late”. Fate then laughed and introduced him to his second wife, Laurie (Blanchard) Balfanz, who was rarely on time. They met in October 2016 as the Cubs were competing in the World Series … he decided she was good luck and they were wed.
Henry’s second act began with him as a business professor; teaching at Bradley University, Northern Michigan University, and retiring from Alma College. He was even named Outstanding Teacher of the Year at Alma College in 2018.
Late in life he fell in love with traveling, visiting China, Australia, and teaching in Prague. Henry was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and with wheelchair in tow, he and Laurie traveled to NYC, Chicago, D.C., New Orleans, London, Paris, Rome, and Dublin. Henry developed Parkinson’s related Dementia and spent his final days watching the Cubs, snacking on popcorn, and cuddling his dogs (Lincoln, Luke, and Pugsley) and cats (Oreo, Ike, and Sophie).
He will be missed by his children Nate (MaryAnne) Balfanz and Nick Balfanz, as well as his stepchildren – Hadrian, William, Emma, and Riley Wiltse. Instead of burial, Henry has chosen to have his ashes scattered in the places he loved most.
Cremation has taken place and there will be a memorial service Monday, October 12 at Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd, Michigan at 2 pm with visitation from 1 pm until time of service.
In memory of Henry please consider mentoring a child, telling a dad joke, or enjoying some chocolate.
