Natalie Marie Klemko, age 38, passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on October 1, 1987, to Michael and Amy (Schutz) Klemko. She was a graduate of Westosha Central High School. Natalie’s drive extended far beyond her personal life into remarkable athletic and academic achievements. She graduated from Midwestern State University on a cycling scholarship, earning her BBA in Business Administration and Management, and later completed her MBA in Marketing and Operations & Brand/Product Management from DePaul University.
An accomplished cyclist, Natalie was a Junior Nationals Cycling Champion and competed on the world stage at the Junior World Cycling Championships in Vienna, Austria. She raced at the semi-professional level with Team Advil/Chapstick and went on to become a Collegiate National Cycling Champion. Never one to shy away from breaking barriers, she also raced wingless sprint cars alongside her brother, becoming the first female points recipient in the history of the Interstate Racing Association. Watching her venture into the world of bike and car racing was inspiring-she was groundbreaking for young women, stepping into male-dominated spaces not just to participate, but to dominate.
Natalie lived a life fueled by passion, adventure, and deep love for those closest to her. A devoted fan of sprint car racing, she spent countless miles traveling the country alongside the love of her life, Bill Balog, and his team competing in the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series. Those years on the road, especially traveling by RV from racetrack to racetrack, brought her immense joy and a sense of home wherever they went.
Natalie combined her competitive spirit with creativity and dedication in her professional pursuits, contributing her talents in merchandising, marketing, and social media for Bill Balog Racing and Wilmot Raceway. Her energy, determination, and love for the racing community left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
She cherished time with her beloved nephews, Marshall and Cade, as well as Bill’s sons, Dylan and Cole, creating lasting memories filled with laughter and love. Natalie also found happiness in life’s simple pleasures, cooking and baking for those she loved, and taking peaceful walks with her puppy, Greta.
Natalie is survived by her mother, Amy Klemko; her brother, Chris Klemko; her nephews, Cade and Marshall Klemko; her partner in life, Bill Balog, and his sons, Dylan and Cole; and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her father, Michael Klemko; her grandparents, Paul and Lorraine Schutz, and Albert and Bernice Klemko.
In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances to the Kenosha County Fair Foundation, memo: Kids Klub would be appreciated.
Gathering
DATE:
April 29, 2026, from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Piasecki Funeral Home
3720 39th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53144
