John Balog

John Balog John was born in New Brighton, PA on August 11, 1923 and died November 6, 2017. He was preceded by his beloved wife of 65 years, Mildred Strobel Balog; his father, Steve Balog; his mother, Verona Balog; and two sisters. He was a devoted father to Celeste Balog (Wes Miller), Stephen Balog (Joan), Gary Balog, and Joseph Balog (Cheryl). He took great pride in his eight grandchildren: Alyssa (Shawn MacDonald), Travis (Alyson), and Thomas Rosenbloom; Marcus (Mandy) and Valerie Balog; and Alison, Andrew, and Brooke Balog. He took special joy in his great-granddaughter, McKinley Rosenbloom. John proudly served in the Navy during WWII as Yeoman First Class, serving both as a gunner and payroll clerk on the USS Anthony, a destroyer which was instrumental in the battle for Okinawa. He earned his bachelors degree in Business from Benjamin Franklin (now George Washington) University. He retired as a systems analyst in the Farmers Home Administration within the federal Department of Agriculture. He also managed a tax preparation business for over thirty years, finally retiring at age 82. He and Mildred made their home in northern Virginia for 60 years before moving to Wichita to be close to family. He led by example, showing through his actions the importance of faith and family. He will be forever missed by all who knew him, including his extended family and lifelong friends. Rosary 9 am, Funeral Mass 9:30 am, Monday, November 13, at St. Elizabeth Chapel at Catholic Care Center. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to Starkey, which supports people with disabilities, at 4500 W. Maple, Wichita, KS 67209. Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.