Richard L. Balzer

May 9, 1925 – Oct. 30, 2013

Mr. Richard Lee Balzer, age 88, a resident of 196 Dan Taylor Road, Washington, died Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2013 at his home.

A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 4, 2013, at Wares Chapel United Methodist Church of Washington officiated by Rev. Joan Fisher.

The family will receive friends on Monday following the service at the church and other times at the home.

Mr. Balzer was born in McPherson County, Kan., on May 9, 1925, son of the late Otto Curt Balzer and the late Katrina Froese Balzer. He was a 1942 graduate of Inman High School in Inman, Kan. Mr. Balzer served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII in the European Theater. He received the Rifleman Ribbon, the Sharpshooter medal and ribbon, a unit citation for the European Theater, Croix de Guerre, Croix de Coup, Combat Rifleman Badge and Combat Star. Mr. Balzer married the former Dorothy Louise Parvin on Aug. 23, 1946, who survives. Following his military career, he worked as a salesman in the Automobile Products field. He was a pilot and custom airplane builder, a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and captain of the Youth Civil Air Patrol. Mr. Balzer was a member of Wares Chapel United Methodist Church.

Surviving along with his wife of 67 years, Dorothy, of the home are two daughters: Kathy B. Giachello and husband Teresio of Italy and Anna B. Edwards and husband James of Washington. Mr. Balzer was predeceased by his daughter, Lee B. Respess, and a sister, Mildred Graham.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for memorial contributions to be made to Wares Chapel United Methodist Church, Roofing Fund, 2788 N. Market Street Ext., Washington, NC 27889.

Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.paulfuneralhome.com.

Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Balzer family.