Carol A. Balfe

Carol A. Balfe, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, in Itasca, Illinois. She was born on December 27, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, and in her 85 years touched countless lives with her warmth, kindness, and devotion to her family.

Carol dedicated herself to her loved ones, embodying the values of compassion, generosity, and unwavering support. Known for her loving and caring nature, she was the heart of her family. Her children recall how she consistently went above and beyond to help and nurture them, always placing their needs before her own. As a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews and as a devoted "Nana" to her grandchildren, Carol was adored, respected, and deeply cherished.

A life-long resident of Illinois, Carol found joy in simple pleasures and cherished traditions. She loved traveling to Canada in the summer months with her family for fishing trips—a tradition that created lasting memories and strengthened family bonds. Bowling was another passion; her involvement in a bowling league was both a source of fun and camaraderie. Additionally, weekend trips to casinos with her sisters were especially beloved, offering laughter and treasured moments together.

Among Carol’s greatest joys was spending time with her grandchildren. She delighted in sharing stories from her own childhood and teaching them to bake, generously passing along her cherished recipes. These moments not only enriched her grandchildren’s lives but ensured that her love and wisdom would live on through future generations.

Carol proudly regarded her family as her greatest accomplishment. She often spoke of how honored she was to have been a loving wife to her late husband, Robert Timothy “Tim” Balfe, and a devoted mother to her children. The pride and affection she felt for her family was evident to all who knew her.

Carol is survived by her children, Marty (Rebecca) Ginley, Jeremy Balfe, John (Michelle Ginley) and Cheryl Ginley. She leaves behind a treasured legacy in her grandchildren: Joey (Sabrina) Ginley, Heather (Lance) LaRue, Jeremy (Samantha) Borchardt, David Teafoe, James Wylie, Samuel Siegel, Marissa Riley, Camryn Ginley, Eden Ginley, Madison Ginley, and Brooklyn Ginley, and 5 great grandchildren. Carol is also survived by her sister Betty (Richard) Barrett.

She joins in eternal rest her beloved husband, Robert Timothy Balfe; her father, Earl Kramer; her mother, Josephine Kramer, nee Balsamo; her sisters, MaryAnn (Lynn) Ross, Anna Mae (Edward) Syputa, Lucille (Richard) Matyas, and Jean Toppel; and her brothers, Earle Jr. (Dolores) Kramer and Carl Jr. (Gloria) Kramer.

Carol A. Balfe will be remembered for her kindness, generous spirit, and the immeasurable love she gave to her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in those she nurtured, taught, and inspired, and her memory will be treasured always.

Service and interment private.