Ronald Melvin Balke

Ronald (Buzz) Balke, 83 of Eau Claire, WI Passed away September 11, 2026 after a long battle with cancer.

Ron was born May 12, 1943 in Eau Claire, WI to Vivian and Melvin Blake. On December 23, 1963 he married the love of his life Darlene (Dolly) Balke. They were married 50 years before her passing in 2013.

Ron worked at Uniroyal for 30 years before its closing. After Uniroyal closed he then worked for Waste Management for 11 years before retiring.

He enjoyed going to the River Prairie Rocking on the River music concerts. He was an avid Nascar fan and loved going to car shows.

Ron is survived by daughters, Tami Ressler and Traci Lawrence; son Ricky Balke; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren; as well as many other nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife Darlene; parents Vivian and Melvin; daughter Trudi Harshman; and sister Yvonne Steen.

A memorial service will be held for Ronald at 11 A.M. at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 416 N Dewey St, Eau Claire. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service.