Larry Balvanz Obituary

Larry Eugene Balvanz was born on March 18, 1939, in Eldora, Iowa, to Russell and Verna (Zeltman) Balvanz. He was affectionately nicknamed 'Buzz' and always enjoyed introducing himself that way. The name suited him well, especially with his signature haircut.

He attended school in Eldora (K-8), then to New Providence for his high school years when the districts changed. He was a proud graduate of the class of 1957. Growing up, he worked for various farmers in the neighborhood, and this began his love of agriculture. He proudly served in the Army from 1959-1961, eighteen of those months were spent in Germany and he often dreamed of returning one day.

He met and married June McCalley on a blind date in Ames, Iowa. They were united in marriage on June 3, 1962 and resided in New Providence, Iowa. They were blessed with three children: Lynn, Randi, and Michelle.

Larry worked at Lawn Hill Coop and later, he drove for Reece Truckline. We can't forget Larry's early days working at the New Providence Gas Station, a place he would eventually purchase and proudly rename 'Larry's Station,' though many locals fondly knew it as his personal clubhouse. He was always farming on the side as he truly loved it, and many times this was done at night after finishing a full days work. He also worked for the City of New Providence, serving as a council member and eventually earned the title Mayor of New Providence. He was then later honored to be able to play the role of "Mayor" in the New Providence movie. Larry helped with the city's maintenance work as well, which included mowing and caring for city grounds, which he loved. He was a member of the New Providence Fire Department for more than 50 years and served as Fire Chief for several of those years. Larry was the definition of a hard worker, in fact it was always "one more round."

Larry was an active member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Eldora, serving as trustee and an usher for many years. He was also a proud member of the American Legion in Eldora. On May 7, 2022, he was thrilled to attend the Brushy Creek Area Honor Flight. It was a deeply meaningful and extremely impactful experience, giving him the chance to visit the memorials in Washington, D.C. and connect with fellow veterans who shared similar stories of service and sacrifice. Another of his greatest joys was bowling with his '57 friends and he bowled on several leagues until last fall. Larry found pleasure in the little things: a manicured lawn, his weeded gladiola garden, the Iowa Hawkeyes and his precious sheep. The verse, "I am a good Shepard; I know my sheep and my sheep know me," could not fit Larry more perfectly.

Larry's life was beautifully defined by these pillars: faith, family, farming, flowers, friends and a whole lot of fun (some would say ornery). He carried a deep pride in his community and would do anything for others - whether it was sharing his flowers, sweet corn, or simply his time. He had a rare gift for turning strangers into lifelong friends.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Junebug, of New Providence; two sons: Lynn Balvanz (Heather) of Eldora, Randi Balvanz (Peter Tempesta) of Beverly Hills, CA, one daughter Michelle Hamer (Todd) of Ames; six grandchildren: Dakota (Shawna), Dayton (Thalia) and Dru (Jake) Balvanz, Tate and Mya Hamer, and Ashlee Marshall; two step-grandchildren: Caleb (Cylee and Atlas) Lindsey and Hailey (Zach and Iris) Jones; two brothers: Loran (Sharon) and Lonnie (Rita) Balvanz both of Eldora.

Larry passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at Hubbard Care Center in Hubbard, Iowa. He was 86 years old and lived every day to the fullest. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Joan Balvanz and his granddogs Iowa and Chex.

The family wishes to thank the Hubbard Care Center staff for their amazing care. We are eternally grateful for the great community of New Providence for their love and care for our parents, especially Trish and Denise. Because of all of you, Mom & Dad were able to be home for as long as they were.