Obituary of Doreen Balun

It’s with inconsolable grief and sadness that the family of Etta ‘DOREEN’ Balun announce her passing on her 87^th Birthday June 17, 2024.

She has gone home to be with her greatest love and soul mate, John Joseph Balun, 1.5 years after his passing (December 1, 2022). 

She leaves behind her adored children John David Balun (Elly) of Kingsville, her best friend and her ‘Ethel to her Lucy’, Michelle Lynn (Christopher) Ritchie of Chatham.

She was the absolute best and proudest Nana to Sgt. David Balun (Combat Medic, Borden, ON), Dr. Jennifer Janik (Ian) of Madison, Wisconsin, and her beloved Michael Ritchie (Alexandra) of London, ON.

Mom is predeceased by her infant son Michael Edward (1965), her sister and brother in law Doris and Al Jordan. Her parents Eddie and Roxie Watson and her in-laws Peter and Mary Balun.

Mom was a true coal miner’s daughter. Born in Glace Bay, (Dominion), Nova Scotia. At 11 years old along with her family, they packed up and moved to Chatham for a better life. Through quiet strength, toughness and determination she always persevered. She loved life, family, friends and all the memories her and Dad made in their 64 years together. She would and has done anything and everything for her family with guidance, support, always a listening ear and the hugest heart and love for us all.  How blessed were we?

She will be forever missed by us all.

As per Mom’s wishes cremation has taken place.

A private family celebration of life will follow at a later date.

Go dance again with Dad!

Rest easy our beautiful Momma/Nana.