May 1, 1919 — March 4, 2016

Lawrence Stephen Balok, 96, of Cassopolis, died peacefully Friday morning, March 4, 2016 at his residence.

He was born May 1, 1919 in South Bend, Indiana to Stephen and Nellie (Zupke) Balok, the oldest of five boys. He married Betty M. Daugherty November 10, 1939 in Richmond, Indiana. After more than sixty two years of marriage, she preceded him in death in 2002. He was also preceded by his parents and one brother, Eugene Balok.

Larry served in the U.S. Navy during World War II in the Pacific Theater. He then worked in several South Bend Tool and Die shops and was a partner in one. He retired as Vice President of K & M Manufacturing of Cassopolis after thirty years. Larry was active in the Diamond Lake Yacht Club, the Cass County Council on Aging, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and the South Bend Lodge F. & A.M.

Larry will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his daughter, Elaine M. Balok of San Diego, California; one son, Larry J. (wife, Cyndi) Balok of Bradenton, Florida; one granddaughter, Courtney A. Hastings of Bradenton, Florida; three brothers, Chester C. Balok of Albuquerque, New Mexico, John R. (wife, Joan) Balok and George E. (wife, Nancy) Balok, both of South Bend, Indiana; and several nieces and nephews.

There will be no service or memorial.

The family prefers contributions be made in Larry’s memory either to the Diamond Lake Back to School Swim Camp, in care of Michigan Gateway Community Foundation, 111 Days Avenue, Buchanan, Michigan 49107, or, to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Connelly Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.