BALMAS - John C.

February 3, 2024 of Derby NY. Beloved Father of Christine (Paul) Trembath, Teresa (Jeff) Rife, Suzanne Guy and the late Cheryl Balmas; Grandfather of 8 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren; predecesed by 1 sister and 3 brothers. Survivied by nieces and nephews.  A memorial visitation will be held on Monday, August 19, 2024 from 9-10 AM at the Latimore Schiavone Funeral Home Angola, NY; where prayers will be said at 10:15 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM Most Precious Blood Church Angola, NY.  

John C. Balmas, a proud Polish man who valued family above all, passed away. He was a devoted father to four daughters, loving grandfather to eight grandchildren and cherished great grand-father to six great-grandchildren.

John's laughter and humor brightened the lives of everyone he met. A Korean War veteran and a former Mr. Buffalo competitor, he embodied strength and vitality throughout his life.  Known for his artistic talents, John created cherished hand-drawn birthday cards and comics, and helped design local schools in the Buffalo area as a drafter. 

He also had a notable career at Bethlehem Steel, rising from a laborer to the general manager's department, a position he was immensely proud of.  In his later years, John found joy in nature, especially feeding the birds and squirrels on his property, fondly referring to it as "God's Country".

John's legacy of love, laughter and resilience will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten.