Obituary of Joseph Kunigus Balko

BALKO, Joseph Kunigus Passed away peacefully, in his chair while doing his crossword, on Saturday, December 28, 2019 in his 95th year. Beloved husband of the late Sophie Balko for 66 years. Dear father of Cheryl (Ron) Barned and Lorraine Bakelaar (Roy Groot-McLaren). Proud grandfather of Steven (Patricia) Barned, Michelle (Ian) Hunter and Tammy (Darrell) McIntosh and great-grandfather of Austin, Brady, Madison, Emily, Nathan and Hannah. Survived by sister Beatrice Martin. Predeceased by parents Stefan and Margita Balko and great-grandson Cameron Hunter. Born in the town of Saint Andrew, Czechoslovakia on March 2, 1925. Joseph emigrated to Canada in 1930 with his mother Margita through the Port of Halifax. His father Stefan Balko had previously emigrated to Canada to help build the Canadian Railway. Settling in Toronto, he attended St. Cecilia's Church and school. After graduating form Western Technical School, he was able to gain employment working on airplanes such as The Lancaster. He then enlisted in the Canadian Air Force and later transferred to the Canadian Army and traveled to Europe. “In thanks, Canada sent me through Ryerson College in Toronto and from that education I was able to gain employment with Ontario Hydro. I worked there until retirement.” Dad was eternally grateful for the experiences this country provided for him. Visitors are welcome to John T. Donohue Funeral Home, 362 Waterloo Street, on Thursday, January 2, 2020 from 11 to 12 o’clock. Funeral Service will take place in the John T. Donohue Funeral Home Chapel at 12 o’clock. Interment at St. Peter’s Cemetery.