Ralph S. Balcerek

Ralph S. Balcerek was welcomed into Jesus’ arms on Monday, May 5th 2025, at the age of 90. Here he was reunited with Virginia, his wife of 67 years.

Ralph was born to Stanley and Genevieve (Kaluzny) on March 24, 1935 in Milwaukee, WI. He married Virginia (Hartmann) on September 7th, 1957 at St. Rita’s Catholic Church, West Allis, WI.

Ralph graduated from Boy’s Trade and Technical High School in 1954. Shortly after graduation, Ralph was drafted into the US Army. He served overseas with the Corps of Engineers and always spoke very fondly of his military experience. He received an honorable discharge in 1956 and sought to meet the lovely young woman who had been writing him letters during his service. This young woman who wrote to him based on the recommendation of a friend turned out to be the love of his life.

Ralph and Virginia were married shortly after and shared 67 years together. While building their life as one, they found their calling to be volunteers for the Marching Arts. WGI Volunteer of the Year and MWCGC Hall of Fame being some of their many achievements. Ralph’s experience as a commercial/delivery driver made him a perfect complement to the units that they were working with. Ralph and Virginia went on many adventures with the units that they supported. They visited many States and even traveled to Europe. Ralph and Virginia were huge supporters of their units and Ralph was often seen proudly cheering them on loudly.

Ralph was a man of strong faith. The light of his faith shone through in all that he did. Whether volunteering, hard at work, or hard at play, his polite and loving energy was contagious. Ralph had a gift of making everyone that he met feel special and if you were ever near Ralph, you were not a stranger for long.

Ralph will be dearly missed by all. He is survived by his special niece Jeanne (Jim) Scalf. Further survived by nephews, great nephews, great nieces, family and friends.

Visitation will take place at Krause Funeral Home, 9000 West Capitol Drive, Milwaukee on Tuesday May 27th from 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM followed by the praying of the Rosary and military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials will be donated to the Wisconsin Athletic Club.

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