Danny “Dan” Joe Balch, 83, of Richardson, Texas, passed away Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024.
Dan was the devoted and loving husband of Sharon Balch, nee Lichte. He was born Oct. 7, 1940, in St. Louis, to Marion and Leo Balch.
In his early years, he was known to his childhood friends and family as “Duke.” Dan met Sharon while in high school and they married in June of 1960. Soon after, followed their three sons: Steven, Jeff and Don. Dan was transferred from McDonnell Aircraft in St. Louis to McDonnell Douglass in Titusville, Fla., in 1967. While living in Florida, they had their fourth child, Cindy. In 1979, the Balch family moved to Richardson, Texas, where Dan went to work for Optic Electronic Corporation. After several years at OEC, Dan began his own business, Optex Systems Inc., from which he retired in 2004. During his retirement, Dan enjoyed many trips with Sharon here and abroad with their church friends. He loved to be on the golf course and enjoyed playing several international courses as well. He could often be found on his tractor at their family farm in Clarksville, Texas, or at their cabin in Missouri. In his early days, he earned the title “Handy Dan” because of his vast knowledge of fixing just about anything. He was always helping his children with home projects. Dan spent many hours helping widows in need through the church’s program and was a deacon of The Heights Church in Richardson, Texas, for many years.
Dan is remembered by his family and friends for his wisdom, patience, generosity and good nature. He loved his family deeply and enjoyed spending time with his friends.
He was preceded in death by parents, Leo and Marion Balch; in-law’s, Forrest and Ollie (nee Gidinghagen); daughter-in-law, Leisa Balch; and son-in-law, Brent Durmas.
He is survived by wife, Sharon Balch; sons, Steven, Jeffrey and wife Ellen, and Donald and wife Tammy; daughter, Cindy; grandchildren, Stephanie, Hunter, Rachel, Colton, Madelyn, Devon and Camryn; and great-grandson, Wesley.
Dan was buried in Owensville City Cemetery Tuesday, Feb. 20, with Rev. Kevin Sullivan officiating.
A Celebration of Life ceremony will follow in Richardson, Texas.
Arrangements entrusted to Gottenstroeter Funeral Home in Owensville.
