Robert Balko

Robert Darrell “Bob” Balko, age 80, of Lake Shore, MN, passed away after an unexpected illness and died peacefully in his home September 19, 2020. Bob was born in Redwood Falls, MN to parents Erwin A. Balko and Irene (Clift) Balko. After receiving his GED, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper in the early 1960s. He went on to work as a Maytag Service Repairman and later opened several of his own furniture and appliance stores in Iowa. In the late 1980s he moved to Lake Shore, MN. In Bob's senior years he enjoyed time outdoors, fishing and spending time with his family and beloved dogs.

Bob is survived by his children, Heather McStay, Crystal (Barry) Balko-Westerhausen, Robert E. Balko, and Aimeejoy Balko; two stepchildren, Denise Branch and Jeff (KJ) Johnson; long-time significant other, Jody Kane; eight grandchildren; two sisters, Bette (Dick) Speed and Patti Miesner; and one brother, Everett (Laura) Balko. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his sister, Nancy Ferguson.

Kline Funeral Home in Pequot Lakes is providing a graveside service which will be held at Evergreen Cemetery in Brainerd at 1 PM on Friday, September 25.

Condolences may be sent to 5360 Audobon Ave, Apt. 201, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077. For those interested in adopting a pet in Bob's honor, please contact The Babinksi Foundation in Pequot Lakes.