Obituary of Thomas Elmer Balsbaugh

Thomas Balsbaugh, 72, of Dowagiac, passed away at Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville on Tuesday, April 5, 2022. Thomas was born on December 13, 1949, to the late Byron and Mildred (Harrigan) Balsbaugh. Thomas was a Journeyman Electrician after graduating in the first class from Ivy Tech College. Thomas worked for Bendix until his early retirement, following an automobile accident. He enjoyed spending time outdoors and always looked forward to fishing. He also enjoyed playing sports, such as softball and bowling. Thomas was an independent kind of guy who did it all and was a very outgoing and good natured person; he will also be remembered for always helping others and put their needs before his own. He was preceded in death by his parents. Thomas is survived by his children, Christi (Will) Gaideski of Edwardsburg, Joni Danzy of Dowagiac and T.J. (Kayleigh) Balsbaugh Jr. of Dowagiac; five grandchildren, Drue, McKenna, Lauren, Miranda, and Liam; His girlfriend, Vicki Freer of Dowagiac; siblings, David (Barb) Balsbaugh, of Hendersonville, Tennessee and Dale (Karen) Balsbaugh of South Bend; He will also be missed by a bonus son, Jeremy Billingham, of Dowagiac, and many extended family members and close friends. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, April 22, 2022 at 1:00 P.M. at Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church located at 51841 Leach Rd, Dowagiac, Michigan 49047. A visitation will begin at the church one hour prior. A private interment will be held at Westlawn Cemetery in North Liberty, Indiana. Memorial contributions may be made in Thomas’ memory to Caring Circle Hospice at 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, Michigan 49120. Condolences, photos, and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, of Niles.