Harlin D Balzer, died June 2nd, 2020 at his home with his children at his side. He was born to Victor S and Lorene E (Gaeddert) Balzer on August 19, 1949 in McPherson, Kansas.
Harlin grew up in Inman, Kansas with his parents, brother, and sister on the family farm. He is a graduate of Inman High School and Bethel College and attended Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary. He went on to raise his family in Hesston and establish a career as a grain farmer in McPherson and Reno Counties.
Harlin loved his children and grandchildren deeply. He always enjoyed going to the movies, taking pop breaks, camping, fishing, photography, farming, and goofing around with those close to him.
He is preceded in death by his parents Victor and Lorene Balzer and his brother Ron Balzer.
He is survived by his children Geoffrey Balzer, Janell (Chris) Buford, and Amy (Tyler) Huntley; three grandchildren; sister Jo (Steve Carr) Balzer; and extended family and loved ones.
Memorial Services will be held at First Mennonite Church in Halstead on Tuesday June 9, 2020 at 2:00 PM with Pastor Steve Wilcox officiating. The service will also be streamed on Zoom. In order to ensure safe social distancing, the family asks that those attending RSVP to scarr@ix.netcom.com.
Memorials may be sent to Bethel College, North Newton, Kansas or Wheatstate Manor, Whitewater, Kansas.
Janell, Geoffrey, Amy & families.
Our prayers are with you as your grieve. Remember all the good times with your dad and realize he is in a better place as you celebrate his life.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss.
It was a privilege for all the staff to have a part in Harlin’s care.
Our sympathies and prayers to the family. He will be missed.
–Chaplain Mike Longden, Wheat State Manor, Whitewater, KS
I remember Harlin from my Bethel College days. We kept in touch off and on over the years. Sometime in the 1980’s Harlin asked me to help him on the farm West of Wichita one day. That is when I also met his parents – who brought some wonderful lunch – including an out-of-this-world cold potato salad. I still have that recipe.
During my son’s MYF years my son was in the youth group with Geoffrey, getting involved with church activities – perhaps even Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp. My last visit with Harlin was over coffee in down town Newton, maybe two years ago. We chatted about the years that were – how time and the years go by so fast.
I am thinking of Harlin’s family during this time of major adjustments.
Hugo Boschmann
I just learned of Harlin’s passing. I pray for peace for each of his loved ones.
Harlin was a good story teller and shared many laughs. His smile and witty nature is missed.
Peace to each of you.