Steve M. "Gramps" Balazs, Jr., age 61, of Toledo, passed away Tuesday, May 10, 2011 after a short stay at Hospice of Northwest Ohio, Toledo. He was born on August 25, 1949 to Steven Sr. and Betty (Howell) Balazs in Toledo. Gramps was a loving, caring and very supportive husband, father, brother, grandfather and great-grandfather.
Steve was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He was a proud retired journeyman electrician for IBEW Local 8. Among his favorite jobs were Fermi I, Davis Bessie and his year long job in India to help construct a local glass factory. Some of his many interests included WWE wrestling, collecting and restoring classic cars, golfing, classic rock concerts, boating and fishing. Steve's love of good food lead to many home cooked meals. He shared his talents of making hunky turkey, pigs in a blanket, onion dip and many spicy dishes.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Judy, in-laws, Howard and Florence Nicklin and sons, Larry and Doug. Steve is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Shirley; children, Bob (Sandy), Cathy, Gregory (Jennifer) and Stacey (John); grandchildren, Jason (April), Amanda, Mindy (Jim), Jake (Je-nek), Larry, James (Lyndzey), Danielle (Travis), John Jr., Joe, Charleigh, Haleigh, Doug and Savannah; great-grandchildren, Zach, Shelby, Todd, Hope, Hannah, Dillion, Cuyler, Caleb, Zander, Braydon, Haydin and Jaiden; sisters, Susie, Carol and Joyce; very close friend and coffee drinking buddy, Hank; and many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive guests on Saturday at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd., Toledo (419-473-0300) from 2 – 8:00 p.m. and again on Sunday from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Funeral Services will begin Sunday at 12:00 p.m. in the funeral home. Officiating will be Layman Carol Dusseau.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make monetary donations are asked to consider Hospice of Northwest Ohio.
Third time around was definitely a charm.
You made my life what it is today!
I will always keep you in my heart to stay.
Love always,
"Mrs. B"