Merle R. Balsley

Merle R. Balsley 89, of Danville, IL, formerly of Eagan, MN, passed away at 7:52pm on Thursday, July 21, 2011 at the Hawthorne Inn of Danville. He was born on June 25, 1922, in Danville, the son of Merle H. and Lola A. Balsley. Both are deceased. Merle graduated from Danville High School. He enlisted into the U.S. Navy in April of 1942, serving aboard the U.S.S. South Dakota during WWII, the U.S.S. Worchester during the Korean Conflict, the U.S.S. Pritchet during the Vietnam Era, as well as two tours of duty in the Navy Recruiting Service, before retiring in December of 1964 as a Chief Petty Officer. Merle married Beverly J. Knowles on May 24, 1972 in California. She preceded him in death in 2004. Survivors include, a daughter; Carol (Gordon) Manchester of Eagan, MN; one brother, Ronald (Kathryn) Balsley of Danville, two grandchildren, Anne and Eric Manchester, one great-granddaughter; Giselle Jane Manchester, a sister-in-law; Mary Knowles, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, and his wife Beverly, his three sisters, and one brother also preceded Merle in death. He was a member of the First Methodist Church in Danville, as well as the Elks, Masons, and Shriners. Per Merles wishes, cremation rites will be accorded at Sunsets on site crematory, under the direct supervision of Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center certified cremationist. A memorial service for Merle Balsley will be held at Sunsets Chapel Mausoleum located at Sunset Memorial Park 3901 N. Vermilion Street on Saturday, July 23, 2011 with burial held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be sent in Merles name to the United Methodist Church in Danville, or to the donors favorite charity. E-mail condolences may be sent to www.sunsetfuneralhome.com