R. Daniel Balusek

R. Daniel “Danny” (aka Blue) Balusek, 71, of Kilgore, Texas completed his earthly adventure on February 27, 2024, in Kilgore after a brief illness. On October 17, 1952, Danny was born to Rudolph and Berniece (Joiner) Balusek. He was raised in Kilgore where from a very early age he liked tinkering with electronics. As a child he was a prankster and loved playing harmless jokes on neighbors. A favorite was to adjust outside wires on the neighbor’s tv making them think the TV was out.

He was a proud graduate of Kilgore High School and went on to both Kilgore College and LeTourneau University, graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering. This was the perfect fit, allowing him to excel in his job as a Design Engineer in Dallas for Rockwell International.

In 1986, Danny married the love of his life and best friend, Jo Turner. He was thrilled to gain two precious daughters from their union. The four shared countless memories which they cherish and hold dear to their hearts. They lived in the Dallas area until 2005 when he and Jo relocated to his hometown of Kilgore. Danny loved time spent with his family, cooking for them on the grill, earning him the nickname “King of the Grill”. He loved old, classic, muscle cars, enjoyed anything to do with trains, fireworks, or anything that had wheels and went fast! He enjoyed riding his tractor, doing yard work and decorating for Halloween and Christmas! Danny brought joy and fun to every day, was bright and energetic, and his life was lived to its fullest. He was a treasure. Even though he was quiet, those who knew him saw the mischief in his eyes. He is profoundly missed by all who had the delight of knowing him.

Danny is survived by his loving wife Jo Balusek of Kilgore, daughters; Paula Ramsey (Tracy) and Cheryl Johnson (Tony), sister Mary Ann Pollard (Steve), his 4 grandchildren, one great grandchild, nieces, and other loving family members and friends. In passing, Danny was reunited with his parents, Rudolph and Berniece Balusek.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 11:00 am at Eastview Baptist Church located at 1105 N Longview Street, Kilgore Texas.