Gregory Balke

Gregory George Balke, 61, beloved son, big brother to sisters and super hero to his nieces and nephews, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, formerly of Grand Ridge, passed away Saturday January 7, 2017 at his home.

A memorial visitation will be held Saturday from 11 AM – 1 PM at the Hagi & Baker Funeral Home.  Memorial services will be held at 1 PM at the funeral home with interment in the Grand Ridge Cemetery.

He was born on February 3, 1955 in Streator to George & Marge (Nicklin) Balke.

He is survived by his mother of Grand Ridge; 3 sisters:  Nancy (Paul) Norris, Lori (Dave) Wakeman of Streator and Julene (Robert) Buckley of Grand Ridge and nieces and nephews:  Henry, Steve, Jeff, Joe, Jake and Jessie.

He was preceded in death by his father.

He attended Grand Ridge Grade School where he was a spelling bee champion.  He graduated from Ottawa High School in 1973 and attended I.V.C.C.

While at Ottawa High School he was an Illinois State Scholar and a National Commended Merit Scholar.

He was the owner of OnSite Oil Change in Albuquerque, N.M.  He was written up in medical journals after being a successful recipient of one of the first bone marrow transplants performed at the University of Oklahoma School of Medicine in 1988.

He enjoyed bowling, shooting pool and visiting the casino.  He was always ready for a game of Texas Holdem.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

Online condolences and remembrances may be shared at www.hagifuneralhome.com