Colleen I. Balenger

Resided in Gladstone, MI
Died April 20, 2020

Colleen Iris Balenger, age 72, of Gladstone passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, April 20, 2020.

Colleen was born August 29, 1947 in Gladstone, the daughter of Phillip and Bernadette (Roberts) Shannon. Colleen was united in marriage to Mike Balenger on November 4, 1972. They made their home, raised their family and spent their entire lives together in Gladstone.

Colleen was known for her sweet demeanor and always had a smile for everyone. She loved her family and sisters very much and always worried about them. Her greatest pride and joy was her grandson, Joseph. She cared deeply for everyone and every living creature. She always worried about the little birds and animals suffering out in the cold. She made sure every animal had enough to eat everyday by putting out a bait pile of bird seed and peanuts. It was just discovered that although she was no longer allowed to drive she would secretly drive herself to Pat’s anyway just to buy more bird food.

Colleen is survived by her daughters, Pamela (Jim) Gibbs of Gladstone and Sally (Rob) Rager of Port St. Lucie, FL; grandchildren Joseph Gibbs, Amy Gibbs, and Sandy (Tony) Nelson; great grandchildren Austin, Kaden, Zach and Russell; sisters, Nancy Carlson and Kathy (Denny) Wellman; sisters-in-law Debbie (John) Vargo, Annamae (Eugene) Nickell, and Linda Williams all of Escanaba; brothers-in-law Scott (Brenda) Balenger and Greg Balenger of Gladstone, Jim Wellman of Ford River, numerous nieces and nephews and her beloved church family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Mike in April of 2019, dog Jack of 15 years in July 2019. Infant son Michael Jr. in 1975, infant daughter Jessica in 1982, parents Phil and Birdie, brother Phillip Jr., sisters Marilyn Williams, Beverly Goodchild, Barbara Shannon and Maxine Wellman. Brothers-in-law Louis Williams, Derwith Carlson, Wally Balenger, parents-in-law Harry and Josephine Balenger.

Colleen was a lifelong member of The Community of Christ Church (RLDS). A private service will be held at the convenience of the family due to the “stay at home” order.

Memorials contributions in Colleen’s name may be sent to the Delta Animal Shelter, 6975 County Road, 426 M 5, Escanaba, MI 49829.

8 Tributes for “Colleen I. Balenger

    I am so sorry to hear about your mom’s passing! She certainly was a sweetheart! She and your dad came to our donut shop for many years. I haven’t seen them in awhile. I didn’t know your dad passed away. They were such nice people. Deepest sympathy! Tom&Terri Skradski and Donut Connection staff!

    My thoughts and prayers are with the family. I remember Maxine more when we were young girls. I had a few phone conversations over the years. We should have tried harder to get together. Family is so important. love, Dianne(cousin) Washburn

    Pam and Sally, there are not enough words at this time to share with you the love of both your mom and dad. Cherish the memories. Enjoy each other and know that God loves you.

    Please extend our deepest sympathy to the entire family for the loss of Colleen. Her and Mike are together again in heaven! Thoughts love and prayers to you all!♥️

    Colleen was always so sweet, she cared deeply for her family and it showed. Her and Mike will be missed at family gatherings that we attended at Pam and Jim’s.

    Your Mom was such a wonderful person, always had a smile and took time to ask how everyone was when I would see her. So thankful for you both taking Mom with to FL with you’s, she enjoyed it so much and will treasure that time now even more. Love you both and God bless.

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