Patricia Jane Balko, 88, of Medford, went to be with Jesus on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at her home with her husband by her side.

 

Patricia “Pat” Balko lived a life woven tightly with love, faith, and an open heart. Born on April 10, 1938, to Margaret & William Anderson in Ladysmith, Wisconsin. Pat received her education from Ladysmith High School. She was a member of the Young People Society with St. Johns Lutheran Church, which is where she met the love of her life, Elmer Balko. They were united in marriage on July 13, 1957 in Ladysmith, Wisconsin. In 1965, they moved to Medford and together they were blessed with a beautiful family of 3 children, 5 grandchildren, & 5 great grandchildren with one on the way.

 

In her youth, Pat worked at Dairy Queen and as a bookkeeper before dedicating herself to her family. She later crafted custom drapes for Frey Flooring and managed the office for her husband’s business, Aid Association for Lutherans (Thrivent).

 

Pat was a talented homemaker of quiet strength. Known for her wonderful hosting, loving home, & great cooking. Her baked beans and potato salad were frequently requested by family and friends and were always a treat. Over the years, Pat enjoyed curling, bowling, and golf. Being a little adventurous, she would take her children tubing at Perkinstown, even if it meant driving her stick shift 1963 Chevy Corvair through the toughest winter weather. She loved to travel with her husband to many interesting places around the world, including Europe, Caribbean, Panama, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, and many other destinations. 

 

Pat was an active member of the Red Hats Society, Friend of the Library, and Immanuel’s Ladies Aid group. Above all, she had a strong faith in her Savior and instilled that faith in her children, grandchildren, & great grandchildren. She was dedicated to keeping her family close to Christ, to have faith and continue to follow Him as their guide throughout life.  It was her priority that all three of her children would get a Christian education at Immanuel Lutheran School.  Sunday was always the day to put on your best clothes because we are going to Gods house. 

 

Pat’s hands were rarely still, her kitchen was never empty, and her heart was always full. Looking back on her beautiful journey, she peacefully shared her own summary: “Other than the loss of my oldest daughter, Tamie, at the age of 23, I had a perfect life.”

 

Pat is survived by her husband of 68 years, Elmer Balko; her children, Tracy Fuchs (Dan) and Randy Balko (Vicki). Her grandchildren, Sarah Nosbisch (Robert), Lucas Fuchs (Samantha), David Fuchs, Ben Balko, and Blake Balko. Her great-grandchildren, Gannen, Raya, Carson, Jackson, & Tanner. She is further survived by her brother Bill Anderson (Cathy), as well as many nieces and nephews.

 

She was preceded in death by her dear daughter Tamie, her parents, Margaret & William Anderson, and her siblings, Rusty, Vivian, Kenny, Richard, Donald, and Becky.

 

A memorial service for Pat will take place at 11:00 AM, which will be live streamed, on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, with Pastor David Spaude officiating. Live steam link: https://youtube.com/@ils54451?si=Z8QEmybQFMEmuaTy.

 

Burial will follow at Medford Evergreen Cemetery II. Visitation will take place at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Thursday, May 14, 2026 from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM.

 

A memorial fund is being established for Patricia Balko and will be de decided by her family at a later date.