Michael James Balfe

Michael James “Mike” Balfe, 69, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026, at the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center in Glen Burnie, Maryland, following complications from kidney, heart, and lung failure.

Born on December 28, 1956, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Mike was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, veteran, and friend. Mike will be remembered most for his remarkable strength, resilience, and determination to spend as much precious time as possible with the family he loved deeply.

Mike proudly served his country in the United States Army as a nuclear weapons inspector in both West Germany and at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. Following his military service, he worked in the field of electronics with companies in the space industry. After earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Athens State University, Mike continued his commitment to public service as both a police officer and correctional sergeant in South Dakota.

For 46 years, Mike shared a loving and enduring marriage with his wife, Angela Gonzales Balfe. Together they built a life centered on family, loyalty, perseverance, and unconditional love. Mike took great pride in his children and grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them and creating memories that will remain in their hearts forever.

Mike would best be described as an avid outdoorsman from an early age. He loved hunting, fishing, and water skiing and had a lifelong passion for athletics. Mike enjoyed both playing and coaching sports, and as the years passed, he traveled to stadiums across the country to watch professional teams compete. His love for the outdoors and for the game was contagious, and he passed those passions on to everyone he encountered.

A man of strong faith, Mike attended Christ the King Catholic Church in South Dakota and later St. Pius X Catholic Church.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Angela; daughter Michelle Balfe (Justin Ontjes); son Michael G. Balfe; and his treasured grandchildren, Ethan and Parker Ontjes. He is also survived by his sister, Pat Thompson; nieces Jennifer (John) Takes and Elizabeth 'Betsy' (Jeff) Phelps; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends in Iowa, Texas, South Dakota, Minnesota and Maryland.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and June Balfe of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and his brother-in-law, Fred Thompson of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Those who knew Mike knew a man of quiet strength, courage, humor, and unwavering devotion to his family. Even through illness and hardship, he fought bravely, motivated by his love for those closest to him. His enduring spirit, caring heart, and steadfast presence will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Beall Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church, followed by burial at Crownsville Veterans Cemetery at 1 p.m.

Though Mike’s earthly journey has ended, the love he gave, the lessons he taught, and the memories he created will live on through his family for generations to come.

“Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy.”