Biography

Kathleen "Katie" Balale, 72 Campbell…Funeral services will be Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at Archangel Michael Greek Orthodox Church, officiated by Fr. Steve Denas for Kathleen "Katie" Balale, 72, who peacefully passed away in her sleep Friday surrounded by her loving family. She fought a courageous battle with breast cancer. Katie was born November 30, 1941, the daughter of Michael and Angeline Pikos Frazis and was a lifelong area resident. She was a 1960 graduate of Campbell Memorial High School. As a young woman, Katie spent 10 years in the Junior Department of Strauss & Co. Department Store in downtown Youngstown. It is there where her passion for clothing and desire for shopping stayed with her throughout her life. After marrying the love of her life, John Balale, she then stayed home to raise her three children as she selflessly sacrificed her own comforts in order to provide to them unconditionally, rather than her own desires. As a proud steward to Archangel Michael Greek Orthodox Church, where she was a member of the Philoptochos Society, church volunteer and was a member of the choir during her early years. Katie was known for her vibrant and energetic sense of humor and she brought life and excitement to any conversation. Katie was loved for being transparent and candid; you never left a conversation wondering what was on her mind. Her quick wit and colorful dialogue brought endless laughter to family and friends. Her fun loving personality often found Katie playing a game of bingo or watching a Cleveland Browns game. She was a mother to many and her generosity extended to her children's friends, neighbors and strangers alike. Katie will be missed dearly by her husband, John with whom she spent over 45 years filled with music and ballroom dancing together at many local events and weddings. She held most dear to her heart the time spent with her husband, children and grandchildren, all of whom she loved unconditionally. Besides her husband, she leaves a daughter, Angela (Eric) Ritz of Boardman; two sons, Marc Balale of Campbell and Michael (Cristin) Balale of Little Rock, Arkansas; seven grandchildren, John (22), Jonathon (19), Erick (16), Kathrin (16), Krista (13), Angelina (3), and Mihali Jr. (3 months). She also leaves four sisters, Ana Marantis of Poland, Christine (Tom) Patrick of Aurora, Maria (Ted) Lambrinos of Campbell and Nancy (Joe) Zetts of Campbell. The Balale family has entrusted their loved one to the care of the Wasko Funeral Home and will receive family and friends Tuesday evening from 5-8:00 p.m. at the funeral home and again on Wednesday morning from 9:30 – 10:00 a.m. at the Church.