Jacqueline (Jacquie) Susanne Balzer passed away peacefully early Friday July 5. She was the daughter of Jack and Betty Clifton. She was born in Kensington, KS and lived most of her life in Newton, KS. She met the love of her life in high school, Francis Balzer. They were married on September 16, 1967, and have been inseparable ever since.
Jacquie was mother to three children raising them to be loving, caring and faithful individuals. She and Fran lived their dream of owning a business, Fran’s Carpet Gallery. She also worked as an Executive Assistant at Prairie View. She loved to read, and following retirement, she donated her time at their church, Koerner Heights acting as the librarian. The joy of her life was her family. Trips to the lake (even though she couldn’t swim), taking the grandkids to antique stores to get a small gift, a quick trip to Sonic or Braums and playing games (but had to read the instructions first - which drove the family crazy). She especially loved Christmas when she filled her home with every homemade Christmas cookie and snack possible. She loved the tradition of attending the Christmas Eve service at Koerner Heights, then coming home to eat chili and opening gifts as the whole family.
She is proceeded in death by her parents Jack and Betty Clifton, her grandmother and uncle that were so special to her, Faye Clifton and David Clifton, and her brother Gary Clifton. She leaves behind her sole mate, Francis Balzer, three children Jason (Stacy) Balzer, Stefanie (Steve) Roth and David (Amanda) Balzer and 8 grandchildren (the joys of her life): Jeremy Balzer, Sydney Balzer, Tyler Roth, Jaden Roth, Paige Roth, Taylor Balzer, Mason Balzer and Gavin Balzer.
Jacquie’s visitation and Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday July 11th from 5:00 – 8:00 PM (visitation) and Friday July 12th at 2:00 PM (Celebration of Life) at Koerner Heights Church, followed by a Graveside service at Newton’s Greenwood Cemetery. All are welcome to join the Balzer family for a light dinner at Koerner Heights immediately after the Graveside service.
Jacquie filled her home with beautiful plants in wicker baskets. In lieu of flowers, please consider plants or memorial donations to Koerner Heights Church. Jacquie will be deeply missed, but forever remembered in the hearts of her family and friends.