May 21, 1949 – August 27, 2024

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our beloved Joe. He passed peacefully with his partner Darlene by his side, after a courageous, brave and long battle with leukemia. Joe was born in Ravensburg, Germany to Gizella and Joseph Balango. The family immigrated to Kansas, Missouri and then to Chatham, Ontario to join other family members. Joe started working the age of 10 in cash crops, on tobacco farms and for the Pioneer Corn Co – the chicken division. He graduated and then went to St. Clair College to pursue a career in the Advertising/Marketing Industry. He was one of 1st grads of Communication Arts, specialising in Advertising. Joe was a gifted athlete and gave up opportunities to possibly play in the NHL and MLB. He was carded by the Detroit Tigers, and the Detroit Red Wings were also interested in him. He played 1st and 3rd base and was a goalie. He continued to play baseball in the Industrial League in TO, and the Ad/Sales League in Vancouver. He also played hockey into his 50’s at Hollyburn. He worked at McKim, Benton and Bowles, MBS, Leo Burnett and McCann Erickson, before going into broadcast sales with All Canada TV in TO. He was transferred to Vancouver to manage the TV division. When WIC bought out All Canada, Joe went with them and was promoted to VP Western Canada. Some years later WIC was bought by Global and Joe was the last employee to leave. Due to his contractual agreement, he enjoyed almost 2 years of free time. He then held sales positions at CBC, CHUM and Rogers. Joe was fortunate to retire in April 2013. He loved golfing, fishing, traveling, in particular Palm Springs, hockey, baseball, the water, growing roses, nurturing a vegetable garden, having coffee with the guys, and spending time with family and friends. He was also known to enjoy playing the slots across the line. An average golfer, Joe enjoyed 3 hole in ones, two in BC and one in California. He also won his boat, named “The Perfect Putt” in a putting contest at a Golf Tournament in Edmonton. He was also a Scout Master and enjoyed teaching /instructing the Scouts. Joe was driven to succeed in most everything he tackled and/or dreamed of. He flourished in his career, and always strived for the best. He loved life and was always up for an adventure. He and his partner, Darlene enjoyed many years engaging in their favourite hobbies and traveling. Joe made friends easily along the way and kept them for life. He always had time for people and had a generous nature. He was a loyal, caring person and was a mentor to many in the Ad/Sales business; and as per many, was an excellent boss. Joe will be lovingly remembered by his partner/soul mate, Darlene Templeton, son Scott (Iveta), grandsons, Alex and Jake, sister Kathy (Henry), mother-in-law, Momma Rose, brother-in-law Greg, many nieces and nephews, cousins, ex-wife Pat and many friends and colleagues. Predeceased by his son, Chris, his parents and brother George. Joe’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and his spirit will forever ride the waves of the many experiences he embraced throughout his life. He lived his life with few regrets. His motto was “Live Her and Give Her”, and make every day count. In his memory, smile, be kind and be the best you can be in your life.

A special thank you to Dr. Mark Boileau, Dr. Ron Village, Nikki, Dr. Victor Huckell and in particular to Dr. A. Avanessian, as well as the nurses/care team at LGH-oncology. All of these professionals cared for and looked after Joe, and we are forever grateful. You all are the unsung heroes. In Joe’s memory please make donations to Lions Gate Hospital Foundation – Oncology.