William Balsley

William Balsley, retired Air Force Captain, died recently in his home in Garland, Texas. He is survived by his wife Marilyn and sons Kent, Keith and Kirk, daughters-in-law, five grandchildren: Matthew, Rachel, Blake, Nicholas and Audra, and five great-grandchildren. Bill was from Janesville, Wisconsin where he married the former Marilyn Moter, also from Janesville in 1950. He joined the Army Air Corp, which later became the U.S. Air Force, without completing high school and rapidly rose through the ranks to Master Sergeant before attending OCS (Officer Candidate School).
He also earned his college degree while serving in the military, and his stations included Japan during the post WW II occupation, Italy, Omaha, NB and bases in Texas. He was proud to serve and felt he belonged there.
After his military service he worked for ESystems (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, TX 75261 or a charity of your choice.