Balster, Robert W. 1923-2012

BALSTER, OLTMANNS, SCHMIDT

Posted By: Ruth Maring - VOLUNTEER
Date: 4/19/2012 at 18:07:56

Clinton, Iowa - Robert W. Balster age 89 of Clinton, died Sunday April 15, 2012 at his home after a long battle with lung cancer. According to family wishes, Robert has graciously donated his body to the University of Iowa Anatomy Research. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held 2 – 4 pm Sunday April 22nd , (on what would have been their 67th wedding anniversary) at the Pape Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com

Robert was born on March 3, 1923 to John and Rika (Oltmanns) Balster on the family farm near Monticello, IA, the youngest of three children. Robert married Betty Schmidt on April 22, 1945 in Preston, IA. He served as a cook in the US Navy during WWII aboard the U.S.S. San Jacinto, CVL 30, a support aircraft carrier for the Enterprise Fleet. Following his discharge he began his career with Clean Towel Services in Clinton, IA, before retiring in 1982. Robert and Betty then began splitting time living between Clinton, IA and Mesa, AZ. He was an avid golfer. Robert has made three hole-in-ones and has won several amateur golfing events.

Robert is survived by his wife of 66 years, Betty of Clinton; two sons, Tom (Maggie) Balster of Dubuque, IA and Terry (Mary) Balster of Greendale, WI; six grandchildren, Nicholas (Allison), Erik (Ashley), Andrew (Jennifer), Keri, Adam (Kathryn), and Ryan; and as well as four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, John and Merle.

A special thanks to the entire Mercy Hospice Team and to the Veterans Administration. We also want to express appreciation for the wonderful neighbors Dad held dear.