Ralph Balke

Ralph F. Balke, 85, passed away at 9:30 am Wednesday February 12, 2014 at St. Clare’s Hospital in Alton.He was born on February 7, 1929 in St. Louis, MO the son of Bernard & Elizabeth (Knese) Balke.He married Geneva “Jenny” E. Simpher on April 5, 1983 at St. Mathew’s Catholic Church in Alton and she preceded him in death on March 5, 2010.He was raised in Meppen and retired from Laclede Steel Company as a supervisor.  He enjoyed playing golf.He is survived by a step daughter and her husband, Linda (Robert) Coomer of Delta, MO; two grandchildren, Dean (Linda) Davis of Delta, MO; Jeffrey Davis of Redding, CA; five great grandchildren,
Clayton, Todd, Will, Emily, and Catherine Davis; one brother, Bishop Victor Balke of Minnesota ; a brother-in-law, Ellis Holleman of Jerseyville, and a sister-in-law, Marge Balke of Colorado Springs, CO.In addition to his parents and wife, he was also preceded in death by a step son, John Simpher; three brothers and a sister-in-law, Burdette (Rose) Balke, and Bernard & Harold Balke; and a sister, Ruth Holleman.Visitation will be from 10 am until time of Funeral Mass at 11 am Monday February 17, 2014 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton with Bishop Victor Balke celebrant.Burial will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Godfrey.Memorials may be made to: St. Mary’s Catholic Church or Masses.Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.staten-fine.com

Obit Provided By:
Staten, Fine & Burke Funeral Home