John Balkus 86John Balkus of Newton Upper Falls died at his home on Wednesday Feb. 19th. Born in Newton, son of the late Joseph and Eva (Staustonis) Balkus, he was a graduate of Newton High School and Bentley College. During WW11 Mr. Balkus served in the Phillipines in the U.S. Army. After the war he was employed by the former Newton National Bank for 42 years, retiring in 1976 from the Shawmut Bank as Vice President. John belonged to the Boston Chapter of the Bank Administration Institute, where he served in many capacities. His last as president. Mr. Balkus served as Auditor for the Newton Election Commission from 1942 until current. He also served as Treasurer of the local baseball, softball, and basketball leagues for the Newton Park and Recreation Department. His services also included being treasurer of the March of Dimes, The Heart Fund and the Lutheran Church of Newton. Mr. Balkus was a member of American Legion Post 440 of Newton, Past president, treasurer and 50 year member of the Newton Kiwanis Club, Beloved husband of Helen (Hoilo) Balkus of 65 years. John was the loving father of Barbara Balkus Sgroi of Albany NY, Karen E Beall of Fontana, CA and John K Balkus of Newton. He was the cherished Grandfather of Susan Griffin of Schenectady NY, David Sgroi of Albany, NY, Tamara Bachman of Yucaipa, CA , Tabitha Abe of Chula Vista, CA, Kimberley and Amy Balkus of Holliston, MA, Sheri Elwell of Ashland, MA and the late Timothy Gladding. Great Grandfather of John and Jeremy Griffin of Schenectady, NY, Brodie Bachman of Yucaipa, CA and Taylor and Tara Gladding of Colton, CA. Brother of Ellen Balkus of Newton and the late Joseph, B. William, Stephen, Albert and William Balkus. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday Feb. 25, 10:00 AM at the Lutheran Church of the Newton’s, 1310 Centre St. Newton, MA. Visiting Hours will be from the Eaton Funeral Home 1351 Highland Ave Needham on Sunday from 4-7 PM and Monday from 5-8 PM. Burial at Newton Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The Lutheran Church of the Newton’s, 1310 Centre St. Newton MA 02459 or to the charity of your choice.