Obituaries

BALKENHOL, Greg

Service Information Updated:
It is with great sadness that the family of Greg Balkenhol announce his passing on February 12, 2020 at the age of 58. Greg’s memory will be cherished by his family: his children Tamara Balkenhol and Brennen Balkenhol; his brothers Kurt (Trudy) Balkenhol and Jeff (Cheryl) Balkenhol; and his nieces and nephews Tyler (Sarah) Balkenhol, Lisa Balkenhol (Aaron Semeschuk), Madison Balkenhol (Adam Boast) and Tanner Balkenhol. He was predeceased by his parents Hans and Beverly Balkenhol.

Greg was such a caring man that he would give someone the shirt off of his back. Greg loved his family deeply and they will all miss him very much.

A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, February 29, 2020 at 1:00 pm at Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery, 1991 Bernard Avenue, Kelowna, BC. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com.

Link: www.springfieldfuneralhome.com/obituaries/balkenhol-greg

Condolence Messages

Mar 12, 2020
So very sorrow to here this.

Hugs and caring

Kendall Bekhuys
Mar 01, 2020
So sorry to the Balkenhol family. I was lucky enough to know him through school and even after school occasionally he used to hang out at Denny's and I would always chat he was a great happy-go-lucky type of fellow. That's how I will always remember him. Condolences Wayne Klassen
Feb 29, 2020
My heart goes out to the Balkenhol family, friends and all who had the pleasure of knowing Greg. I met Greg over 20 years ago, working out at the Firm gym in Rutland. Greg's enthusiasm for health and strength and for life in general made him a well know figure throughout Kelowna. I enjoyed many good times sledding in Eagles pass and king Fisher with Greg. He rode an older sled...yet the power of this sled and his skill still have me in amazement today. Many other riders found it hard to believe how he could out Highmark there newer rigs. Many good memories hunting and bow shooting with Greg..He had a natural skill for almost everything he did. I'm 20 years younger then Greg yet found it hard to maintain his competitive pace up the mountain sides in search of elk. Greg was one of those bigger then life figures. The kind of person you couldn't help but like and respect. I'm honestly super happy and proud of all those memories we shared together. I'll never forget your enthusiasm and all that you have taught me. Rest in peace good friend..may we meet again someday.

Respectfully,

Wyatt Husch
Feb 27, 2020
Kurt, Jeff and family,

We are so sad to hear of Greg's passing. Whenever we saw Greg, he had a smile on his face and something nice to say. Greg will be missed.

With heartfelt sympathy,

Bob and Stefania Boyer
Feb 27, 2020
Kurt, Trudy and Family

This is quite the shock and really sad news. Please know that we are all thinking of you as you go through this. He will be missed by many.

Sincerely Twyla Haynes
Feb 24, 2020
I remember like it was yesterday, biking, hiking and playing lawn darts in the summer, road hockey and snowball fights in the winter. The Balkenhol, Rosen and Harrison boys where always up to something fun. Albeit, we are not as close as we used to be, we never have and never will forget those great times on Dell and Argyll roads. Greg is going to be sorely missed by all. On behalf of the Rosen family, our deepest condolences.

Doug Rosen
Feb 24, 2020
I was very privileged and honoured when Greg agreed to come and try a curry dinner with Janice at my home,and had looked forward to many more such occasions with them both in the future.My heart goes out to Janice,and I feel totally helpless in the face of the overwhelming grief surrounding this terrible loss,and I have no words of comfort to offer,as there are none to express how I feel.My deep condolences to all concerned,and may you be granted the strength to find peace as Time goes by.Fiona Griffiths.
Feb 24, 2020
My thoughts are with Greg's close friends and family today. I am very saddened by the passing of such an energetic, caring man. I had the pleasure of working with Greg at the Tolko Kelowna mill for several years. He had a passion at work that most people don't have, he always wanted to be the best man on the job no matter which job he was performing or training for. I admired that. In the lunch room he always had a smile, and I laughed every time he told me I needed to get to the gym to put on some muscle! I will miss Greg's enthusiasm for life, and the genuine caring conversations that we used to have.

-John Marchuk
Feb 23, 2020
Such sad news! Balkenhols were such a huge part of growing up in the Hollywood subdivision in Rutland...I think back to the days in the neighborhood … going to school at Quigley and SVSS. This is real hard to take ! Kurt and Jeff ,,, I wish you and your families solace in knowing that Greg was a huge part of my memory of those times ...we all rocked the hood back in those days ...peace.

Bill Mahoney
Feb 22, 2020
Very saddened by Greg's passing. First rate person.Always in our hearts.

Condolences to his daughter and son and brothers.RIP

Manfred and Rosemarie Loch
Feb 22, 2020
Trudy and family, thinking about you all,

Miki and Alex
Feb 21, 2020
To Kurt, Jeff and Family.

We had many years of fun growing up on Dell with the two of you and Greg. More recently I ran into Greg around town and we always had real good chats.

He was and will always be a good friend.

My condolences,

Tom Harrison.
Feb 20, 2020
Jeff and family. I am so sorry for your loss.

Heather and Brett Vall
Feb 20, 2020
Kurt, Jeff and family

So sorry to hear of your loss. I was so shocked to hear this news. I have so many great memories of Greg in our younger days. Many, many good times. Then ironically my son Wes became good buds with him too. Wes would come home smiling telling me little things from working with Greg to seeing Greg at the gym and even joining him for a beer. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

Ken Fuhrmann
Feb 19, 2020
Kurt,Jeff and Families,So very sorry for your loss. I watched you 3 brothers grow into young men,attended weddings,news of children as long as your parents were alive I heard of your successes.Your family was loving and close,Greg will be so missed by all of you.Cherish the Memories.Hugs Katie Rovere
Feb 19, 2020
To the Balkenhol Family, my sincere condolences, shocked and saddened to hear of Greg's passing, he will be missed by all....Memories... Max, Santiago Bahia, Colima
Feb 19, 2020
My sincere condolences to 'The Balkenhol Family'! The "Balkenhol Boys" are legendary and I am so sad to hear of Greg he truly was an upstanding guy.

Alex Walz
Feb 19, 2020
Kurt, Jeff and family,

We were saddened to receive the news. Your brother was far to young.

We have fond memories of growing up next to all three Balkenhol Brothers. It seems like just yesterday, we would be looking down Dell Rd to see what was going on at at your busy household, the driveway was filled with cool cars, engines were revving, hustle and bustle of your pals coming and going. laughter and your mom calling out to keep the noise down!

We are sorry for your loss.

Lana & Carrie (Rovere)
Feb 18, 2020
Life just doesn’t make sense.....way too soon for a solid guy like Greg to leave us. I’m sure he’s somewhere hunting big bull Elk and lifting big weights.

My condolences to the Balkenhol family.

Brad Gretzinger
Feb 18, 2020
Kurt and Trudy, Jeff and Cheryl (and kids). Shocked and saddened to hear of Greg's passing. I will remember Greg as a "man's man" (in the best way) who was great fun to be around back in the day. More recently, really enjoyed the several times we bumped into each other in the last several years. A guy who lived life with gusto, and pursued his interests with dedication. So sorry for your loss.

Ritchie & Jen St. Jean
Feb 18, 2020
I can't believe this. Such sad news. We sure had some fun nights watching UFC together. Thoughts go out for your family my friend !!

Cord Crowthers
Feb 18, 2020
Fare well friend. We didn’t get to know each other all that well but at dennys restaurant occasionally.

Great guy. Honest and well mannered .

Greatly missed

???? R.I.P. ????

A friend ...Gilman Sirois
Feb 18, 2020
Jeff,Kurt and family’,

So sorry to learn of Greg's passing. I'm in utter disbelief and he left us far too soon. Please accept my condolences to the entire family.

Larry Hollier
Feb 17, 2020
My sincere condolences to the Balkenhol Family. So sorry to hear of Greg's passing. I fondly remember us all riding our motorcycles back in the eighties. So sorry for your loss. Norm Pidwerbeski and Family
Feb 17, 2020
Jeff,Kurt and family’s, sorry to hear about Greg’s passing.My condolences to all. It’s been a few years. We all had a great time growing up together.Greg was good to all of us and was like a big brother when we were young. Again, my sadness goes out to you. Don Hobal.
Feb 17, 2020
Dear Jeff and family,

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Don and Susan Heinzelmann
Feb 17, 2020
Kurt and family my deepest condolences at this sad,sad time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Thomas Brister
Feb 17, 2020
Mr. Balkenhol and family.

I'm sorry to hear of the passing of your loved one. I'd often talk to Greg at the gym, he was a nice man and will be missed.

Justin Revesz
Feb 17, 2020
Jeff, Cheryl, Tanner and Madison,

We're so sorry to hear of Greg's passing. It's hard losing someone so close to you. Take comfort in the wonderful memories I'm sure you all have. BIG HUGS.

Kari, Darren, Parker and Maggie Forbes
Feb 17, 2020
Greg it’s way too soon to say good bye to a friend.

Our Condolences to the entire Balkenhol family.

Tim and Robin Light
Feb 16, 2020
Kurt Trudy and family... we send our condolences for your loss. Please know you will be in our hearts and prayers... Randy and Reenie
Feb 16, 2020
Jeff and Tyler and Balkenhol family so sorry to hear of Greg’s passing always a sad time but keep his memory as a bigger than life guy. Peace be with you Rob Melle
Feb 16, 2020
Tamara and Brennen, I’m so saddened to hear of the loss of your father. There are just no words at a time like this. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May you find peace in such a sad time. Brent Smith.
Feb 16, 2020
R. I. P. Greg. This came as a big shock. I still can’t believe you are gone. You will be remembered and in our hearts by many. My condolences go out to the family n Janice. Prayers also sent to the family n Janice to help you all heal as time passes by.

Rose Klemola
Feb 16, 2020
Jeff and family,

We can only imagine how difficult this must be for you and your family. We feel for everyone Jeff, and want to let you know that you are in our thoughts.

Big hugs all around.

Dennis and Heather Semeniuk
Feb 16, 2020
So sorry fo hear of Greg's passing. My deepest condolences to Kurt, Jeff and family. It is always difficult to loose a family member so young but remember this, as long as Greg lives in your hearts and memory he will never truly be gone.

Sincerely Ken Wheeler.
Feb 16, 2020
I was friends with Greg when we were 8 years old. I remember his family 50 years ago. Was a good friend in those days. My condolences to his family. Ron Jorde
Feb 16, 2020
Kurt and Jeff, I am crushed to hear this news. Greg was the type of guy that influenced my life from a very early age. Anyone would be proud to say they new Greg, and humbled to call Greg a Friend. My most sincere condolences to you all.

Todd Sanderson
Feb 16, 2020
Kurt ,Trudy m and family, my condolences on the loss of your brother. We will be thinking of your family. Frank Motschko and Sabine.
Feb 16, 2020
My heart is very sad to hear this. My thoughts are with you all. Cindy Martin
Feb 16, 2020
Kurt ,Jeff, Mr and Mrs Balkenhol, a heart felt big hug to you all...I was shocked to hear this sad news. To have a son, brother taken at such an early age is very unfortunate. Our thoughts are with you all at such a trying time. Tony & Lisa Blue
Feb 16, 2020
Jeff and family, we are sorry for your loss. Dale & Lynn Armeneau
Feb 16, 2020
Our sincere condolences to Gregs family. It was with shock sadness and disbelief when we learned of Greg's passing. A fantastic guy full of interest and concern for others he thought may need help. Greg was a terrific gym buddy who lit up many people's day when he entered Worlds gym every morning. Always stopping to say hi to beautiful Tamara at the gym service counter, a daughter he was so proud of and never missed an opportunity to reinforce that. He was positive on himself so much, and was a true survivor and a guy that would always have time for everyone. He told me recently of his new journey with work and personally and was so full of excitement to yet experience new commitments and exciting opportunities. I'm thousands of miles away and am so sad we will miss Feb 29th. Our thoughts are with him and you all. I will smile when I look at the high rings at the gym and remember Greg hanging upside down from them, so proud and rightly so of his physical competence. I'm lost for words but not for tears for this dynamic man. I'm thousands of miles away and am do sorry to miss Greg's service on the 29th. Always remembered buddy. Morley Wright and Trish Balaberde
Feb 16, 2020
We are so sad to hear this news Kurt and Trudy! Our deepest condolences on your loss! Our thoughts are with you.... Mark and Mary
Feb 16, 2020
I am stunned to hear of Greg's passing. May the love, prayers and support of your family and friends bring you comfort during this sorrowful time.

With my deepest sympathy, Maria Fairholm
Feb 15, 2020
I’ve had the pleasure of serving Greg on a regular basis at Boston Pizza. He was always a pleasure to talk to and had great advice when it came to the gym. Every time he walked thru those lounge doors my first question was ”What did you workout today?” Myself and the Boston Pizza Dilworth family would like to send our deepest condolences to the family.

Abby and the Boston Pizza Dilworth Family
Feb 15, 2020
I remember working out with you years ago in Rutland. Kind man big heart. Always a big smile. Miss you big fella. Robbie Oleksyn
Feb 15, 2020
Balkenhol family, so very sorry of Greg's passing, my prayers are with you all. Nonna
Feb 15, 2020
Greg was a customer for over 18 years he use to come in every other week and chat us up, he became a great friend to us . he even trained with all the employees over the years and showed everyone of us what heart and power he possessed. he will be missed dearly.

the MacISAAC family
Feb 15, 2020
I am sadden to hear the passing of Greg. My condolences to the Balkenhol family. Greg was such a happy go lucky person and always willing to help others.

Tim Gerein
Feb 15, 2020
Kurt, Jeff, and family - my most sincere condolences. Greg was a great guy, who always had a friendly smile whenever I saw him. Gone far too young - know that he will be missed by all who knew him.

Scott Sieben
Feb 15, 2020
My very deepest sympathies go out to the family and to Janice, who will deeply miss Greg in her life. They were high school sweethearts who reconnected all these years later and became the centre of each other’s universe. This tragic loss will be felt by her forever and, no doubt, by the rest of his family. My heart goes out to you all at this very sad time. Rest In Peace Greg.

Susan Brun
Feb 15, 2020
The family...

This is a shock to read this. Together with Hans, Greg was a business neighbor and following Han's passing just Greg. When he dicided to return to his other "life" we lost touch.

His work is on display in many location's and each time I see it I will remember the making of them.

RIP Greg..

David Langton

Competition Glass
Feb 15, 2020
Kurt, Jeff and family. I am at a total loss for words. Greg was a stand up guy, and a great friend. He will be missed by all who knew him.. God speed Greg.. Thoughts and prayers are with you all. Chris Forsythe
Feb 15, 2020
I'm in absolute shock that a man like Greg, my mma buddy, would be taken so early. My deepest condolences to the family.

Mike Fischer
Feb 15, 2020
My sincere condolences to 'The Balkenhol Family'! What can one say about Greg! He comes from a great family so he obviously had no choice in the matter but to be the wonderful, friendly & caring person that he was, day-in, day-out! Always cheerful and positive in his relationships with fellow students and staff at SVS! Also, very athletic and a good sport at all times! He will be missed! Loved his sense of humour and contagious smile!

Respectfully,

Mr. C.
Feb 15, 2020
We will all miss our brother and my hunting buddy,very sincerely, Mark Brandt.
Feb 15, 2020
Kurt and family. So very sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. Mark Roth