A. Ruth Balko

A. Ruth Balko, age 101, longtime resident of Northville, passed away April 11, 2025. She was born on August 10, 1923 in Farmington, Michigan; daughter of Ernest and Minnie Carolina (Brummer) Esch. Ruth grew up on a farm in Farmington and proudly graduated from Farmington High School; class of 1940. She was united in marriage to Elmer Balko on June 25, 1949; they spent 70 years lovingly devoted to one another until his death on April 1, 2020.

Following high school, Ruth began her career as a telephone operator with Michigan Bell. After marrying, she embraced the role of homemaker with dedication and pride, devoting herself entirely to the care of her family. Ruth’s home was a model of order and routine; dinner was served at the same time every evening, and every detail of the household was meticulously managed. Remarkably, she continued to hang laundry out to dry; even through the winter months and even after owning a dryer. Each piece was perfectly ironed, and her home ran with the precision of a well-oiled machine. Ruth also took on the responsibility of preserving the harvest from the large vegetable garden her husband maintained, spending countless hours canning and freezing food to nourish her family throughout the year.

Ruth was a faithful member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and attended services each Sunday for many years. Many of her favorite pastimes were shared with her beloved husband, Elmer. Together, they enjoyed square dancing and traveling across the United States in their 5th wheel camper, creating countless memories along the way. Ruth also had a passion for golf and was a spirited and competitive card player. Recently, she delighted in surprising her children by winning a game of euchre. Ruth was a devoted Detroit Tigers fan and loved watching games on television. She also proudly cheered for all things Michigan State.

An avid gardener, Ruth maintained vibrant flower beds that brought color and beauty to her home. She often credited her long life to a diet of fresh, homegrown food, first from her childhood farm and later from the bountiful garden her husband tended. Still, she never passed up an opportunity to indulge in a piece of chocolate. Ruth will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to family, her strong work ethic, and the quiet grace with which she lived her life. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend; she will be deeply missed by all who loved her.

Ruth is survived by her loving children, Gregg (Jason Trace) Balko, Sherrie Balko, Stacey Breedveld, and Gary (Mike Chiaverini) Balko; and her granddaughters, Haley Breedveld and Alexa (Randy) Lee. She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; her sisters, June Bogacki and her infant sister, Joyce Esch; and her brothers, Harry Esch and George Esch.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 16, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. with a Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. Pastor Christopher Fairbairn from St. Paul Lutheran Church will officiate the service. She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Rural Hill Cemetery in Northville.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to St. Paul Lutheran Church 201 Elm Street, Northville, MI 48167.