William Balsley

William Balsley, retired Air Force Captain, died recently in his home in Garland, TX. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, and sons, Kent, Keith and Kirk, daughters-in-law, five grandchildren: Matthew, Rachael, Blake, Nicholas and Audra, and five great grandchildren. Bill was from Janesville, Wisconsin, where he married the former Marilyn Motor, also from Janesville, in 1950. He joined the Army Air Corp, which later became the US Air Force, without completing high school and rapidly rose through the ranks to Master Sergeant before attending OCS (Officer Candidate School). he later attended the Intelligence Communications Officer School and spent his last 5 Air Force years in Intelligence Communications. He also earned his college degree while serving in the military; and his stations included Japan during post World War ll occupation, SAC Hqs at Omaha NB, Italy and bases in Texas. He was proud to serve his country and felt he belonged to the Air Force. After his military service he worked for E-Systems (now Raytheon) in Garland for more than 20 years. During retirement he enjoyed visiting relatives, playing golf and traveling to see historic sites in the U.S. visiting many old forts and Civil War battlefields, as well as National Parks. He also spent many hours with his sons and their families, often helping them with their projects. Donations may be made to the Salvation Army; USO DFW, Box 613306, Dallas, 75261 or the charity of your choice.