George Balekos, Monona, Iowa, June 12, 2018

George William “Junior” Balekos, 87, of Monona, Iowa completed his earthly journey on Tuesday, June 12, 2018 at Elkader Care Center, Elkader, Iowa. George was born June 6, 1931 to George C. and Scella (Pettinger) Balekos. He graduated from Monona High School in 1949. George proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.

George was united in marriage with Loretta Busness on June 19, 1952 in Waterville, Iowa. Four children were born to this union, Terri, Todd, Jill and Kristy. His family was his life. Together they enjoyed spending summers at their cabin on the Mississippi River. He deeply loved and is greatly loved by his children and grandchildren. He took great joy in telling stories and jokes to any and all who would listen. George served as an Officer and Chief on the Monona Police Department for 26 years. He also served his community as a Volunteer Firefighter on the Monona Fire Department for 29 years. (1957 – 1986). Throughout it all, his greatest career joys were working side by side with his father, George C. at Balekos Tavern, as well as driving children on his school bus route.

George is survived by his four children, Terri (Richard) Murray of Savage, Maryland, Todd (Lori) Balekos of Monona, Iowa, Jill (Ray) Palmer of Cottage Grove, Wisconsin and Kristy (Greg) Ryan of Marble Falls, Texas; seven grandchildren, Monique (Brian) Cox, Brandon Balekos (fiancee’, Cammy Dole), Annika Balekos, Mykenzy Palmer, Tess Palmer, Dalton (Michelle) Ryan and Tyler Ryan; one great- grandchild, Zane Cox; and a sister-in-law, Clarice Jasper of Las Vegas, Nevada.

George was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta; parents, George and Scella Balekos; and a sister, Verla Drahn.

Visitation will be from 2-5 pm on Sunday, June 17, 2018 at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Monona, Iowa with a one hour visitation before services at the church on Monday.

“We are spending Father’s Day with our father. We will truly understand if you spend the day with yours.” The George Balekos Family

Funeral Services will be at 11:00 am on Monday, June 18, 2018 at Living Faith United Methodist Parish in Monona, Iowa with Rev. Deb Parkison as the Officiant.

Burial with Military Rites will follow at Monona Cemetery, Monona, Iowa.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Monona, Iowa is helping the family with arrangements.



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