Balabas, Bob

Bob Balabas, beloved husband of Mary Balabas passed away very suddenly, on Thursday July 27, 2006. Bob was born on July 21, 1946.

Bob grew up in Flin Flon, and came to Alberta in 1967. Mary and Bob were married in 1969. Bob entered the mineral resource business in 1970 and later co-founded Alberta Southern Exploration Drilling Company. Bob was his happiest when spending time with family, which included their pets, and friends at home or on his land near Cochrane. His talents for acquiring and restoring old collectibles was admired by all. Bob will be dearly missed by his family, friends, pets, and all who knew him.

Bob is survived by his wife Mary of Calgary, his daughter Laryssa of Calgary, his son Jay of Banff, sister Judy of Winnipeg; mother-in-law Mary Szocs of Vancouver; brothers-in-law Andy and wife Cheryl of Vancouver; and Jim of Saskatoon, and numerous extended family. He was predeceased by his mother Anne, father John, and father-in-law Andy Szocs.

A celebration of Bob?s life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY?S Chapel of the Bells (2720 Centre Street North) on Wednesday August 2, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com.

The family wishes to thank family and friends for their ongoing support. In lieu of flowers memorial tributes may be made directly to the Arthritis Society, #200, 1301 – 8 Street S.W., Calgary, AB T2R 1B7 Telephone: (403) 228-2571 or 1 (800) 321-1433.

In living memory of Bob Balabas, a tree will be planted at Fletcher Park, Airdrie by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH. Telephone: (403) 276-2296.