John J Balma, 88, of Kenosha passed away on June 17, 2025, at The Bay at Waters Edge of Kenosha.
John (Jack) was born on August 22, 1936, in Munising, Mi, the son of the late John and Frances (McIntire) Balma. John grew up along the shores of Lake Superior having lived in several lighthouses as the son of a U.S. Coast Guard Lighthouse keeper. In the 1950’s, John raced Harley Davidson, Norton, and Triumph motorcycles at dirt tracks across the Midwest. He went on to work from the mid-1960’s to the 1980’s at the Port of Kenosha as a Longshoreman, and in leadership roles in Kenosha Local 1315, in the International Longshoreman’s Association. After the Port of Kenosha closed, John went on to drive semi for trucking firms that included North American Van Lines, Schneider National, as well as a truck driving Instructor for Pro Drive Truck Driver training school, formerly of Franksville, WI. John finished his professional career as a bus and trolley driver for the City of Kenosha, which he retired from in 2010.
John married the late Janice Richter on December 2, 1965, in Kenosha. They had three children, John Jr., Kimberly, and Scott. John’s hobbies included fishing, motorcycles, watching football, and family events. Most of all, John loved spending time with family, friends, and pets.
Survivors include his children, John (Jennifer) Balma Jr. of Manitowoc, Kimberly (Scott) Braun of Two Rivers, Scott Balma of Kenosha; also included are his grandchildren, Christopher Manthei of Oconomowoc, Connor Manthei of Two Rivers and Isabella Balma of Milwaukee. John was preceded in death by his wife and parents.
A visitation will be held at Kenosha Funeral Services on Saturday June 28, 2025, from 9:00AM-11:00AM with funeral services to follow immediately at 11:00AM. Burial will be at Sunset Ridge Memorial Park.
