Florence Balck

Florence Balck - It is with extreme sadness, we announce the passing of our mother, Florence Balck. Florence was born Dec. 7, 1938, in Appleton. She was the eldest child of Clarence and Verna Diedrick. Florence lived most of her life on McKinley Street in Kaukauna, first with her parents and then with her husband, Jim.    On Aug. 16, 1958, she married Jim Balck and, during their 43 years of marriage, raised six children in Jim’s parents' homestead on McKinley Street. There were fun times with many friends and family enjoying a dip in the swimming pool in their backyard on those hot summer days. Jim and Florence also co-owned and operated Kaukauna Floral for 27 years until Jim’s passing in April 2001. While Jim had the “green thumb,” Florence wore many hats running the business side, from bookkeeper to designer to the person who would welcome you when you came to the floral. Her pleasant voice was the one you heard when you called, “Hello, Kaukauna Floral.” That pleasant voice carried into how she answered the phone whenever you called her.  Florence was known for her vibrant spirit and love for travel and going to the casinos. Even though she couldn’t do this anymore, she had made great memories with her friends. Our parents took fishing trips to Canada with Ray and Arlene Hardtke and spent many summers vacationing at Ted’s Sandy Beach with friends, John and Sharon Schuh, where they created countless memories. Florence shared a special bond with her close friend, Wanda VanStiphout. Together, they had many years of mischievous fun, including trips to Las Vegas, spontaneous road trips, rummaging, and even picking up cabbage on country roads, ensuring nothing went to waste. Their friendship was fondly described as being "thick as thieves." When Florence could read, you could always find her nose in a good book, sitting outside enjoying the outdoors. She also found a passion for rosemaling, a traditional form of decorative painting, and dancing to polka music with her late husband, Jim. Their shared love for music was evident because music was being played whenever you visited.  In her later years, when mobility became challenging, Florence found joy crafting beaded bracelets. Each piece she created was a token of her love; recipients felt fortunate to receive one. Her creativity and generosity left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Florence will be remembered for her spirited personality, her love for being outdoors when the weather was nice, and the warmth she brought into the lives of her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the cherished memories she created with those who were fortunate to know her. Florence is survived by her children: Mary Balck, Gail (Dennis) Judkins, Karen Balck, Richard (Penney) Balck, Amy (Steve) Hinz, and Chris (Debbie) Balck. She was the proud grandmother of her eight grandsons and one granddaughter. Grandsons: Dan (Jackie) Judkins, Domenic (Sarah) Judkins, Alex (Emily Drenth) Judkins, Jeremy Millard, Jon (Brianna Webster) Millard, Cody Balck, Ryan Balck, Will (Anna Cernohous) Hinz, and granddaughter Alisa Leverenz. Three great-grandchildren: Renna and Ryker Millard, and Clay Judkins. She is also survived by her siblings: Jan (Al) Champeau, Pat (Dave) Brickman, and Bill (Tina) Diedrick, as well as nieces and nephews. Florence was preceded in death by her husband: Jim, and her parents: Clarence and Verna Diedrick. Jim’s family: William (Laura) Balck, Robert (Rose) Balck, George (Gussie) Balck, and Richard Balck. For the last 4-1/2 years, Florence resided at Country Villa in Freedom. During the nice weather, you could find her sitting outside soaking in the sun and listening to her radio. Thank you to her lunch buddies, Charlotte, Carol, and Barb -- she enjoyed your company. Special thanks to the caregivers at Country Villa, Theresa, Dawn, Jen, Hayley, Danielle, Kristi, Michele, and Nurse Connie, to name just a few. To Mom’s favorite caregiver, Moe. You could always get a smile from Mom and get her to do her walking exercise. She enjoyed your sense of humor and always had a comeback. She also looked forward to seeing you and the special treats you provided. To all the caregivers who worked with Florence during her stay at Country Villa, thank you for treating her like your mom or grandma. We can’t thank you enough for being so kind and wonderful. Big hugs to you all!! Thank you to Dr. Merci Awe and her nurse, Laura Looker, for their outstanding care. Also, thank you to the staff on the 8th Floor at AMC for their kindness. Memorial services were held Dec. 22 at the Verkuilen-Van Deurzen Family Funeral Home Kaukauna location. A memorial is being established in Florence’s name. Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery

VERKUILEN VANDEURZEN FUNERAL HOME