George J. Balch, Jr.

George J. Balch, Jr., age 82, of Nokomis, FL, died on October 9, 2013. He was born in College Point, NY on July 21, 1931. George moved from Ocean Gate, NJ to Florida in 1971 and worked in construction until his retirement. His favorite pastimes were sailing in the Gulf and woodworking. George was a Korean War veteran, having served in the US Army. George is survived by his companion Marilyn DeWan of Nokomis; his children Robert Balch (Nadine) of Garden Ridge, TX, Carol Lake (Dan) of North Port , FL; James George Balch (Kathi) of Bradenton, FL, and Michael Christopher Balch of Venice; brothers John of Tucson, AZ and Donald of Columbia, SC; 5 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. George was preceded in death by his wife Mary and granddaughter Cynthia Chambers. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Epiphany Cathedral on Tuesday, October 22nd at 11 AM with burial to follow at Venice Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations can be made to Tidewell Hospice, 5955 Rand Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34238. Farley Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Service Information Date: Tuesday, October 22, 2013 Time: 11:00 am Epiphany Cathedral Catholic Church Address: 350 Tampa Ave. W., , Venice, FL, 34285 | Map Cemetery Information Date: Tuesday, October 22, 2013 Venice Memorial Gardens Address: 1950 Center Road, , Venice, FL, 34292 (941) 493-4246 | Map