Walter Balfour

GHENT – Walter E. Balfour passed away peacefully at age 99 on Friday, August 2,2024, with family by his side. Walter was born in Glens Falls, NY and grew up on his family’s farm in Argyle, NY. He volunteered for the US Navy in 1943 and served as an Electrician’s Mate during WWII. After discharge, he returned home and began college at the State University of Oneonta. It was in Oneonta that Walter met and married Virginia Sanly in 1949. 

Walter’s career began in Rochester, NY in 1951 as an elementary school teacher. He later taught in Cazenovia, NY, moving to East Nassau as elementary school vice principal for one year before settling in Chatham, NY as Elementary School principal for 21 years. Walter retired in 1981.

Walter was well regarded in the community for his work at the school and for his countless volunteer hours. He took great pride in his role of founding member of the Rotary Club of Northern Columbia County, where he held the office of President. He led the chapters International Student Exchange program and delighted in hosting students in his home from Mexico, France and Australia. He actively served as a Rotarian for more than 50 years. 

Walter was an active member of the Chatham United Methodist Church for over 55 years. He served as Board Member and Treasurer for many of those years. He also enjoyed volunteering as an usher at The MacHayden Theater. 

Walter’s life centered around serving others, in numerous volunteer roles. He will best be remembered for his love of family, his kindness and compassion, and his dedication & commitment to his community.

In Walter’s 43 years of retirement he also enjoyed; numerous International Travels with Virginia and close friends & family, antique furniture refinishing, and tending his vibrant Gladiola garden.

Walter is survived by his sisters, Mary Lou Crannell and Joan Lamb, his three sons Lynn (Janet) of Broadview Heights, Ohio, Kim (Linda) of Delanson, NY and Gary (Denise) of West Grove, PA. Walter is also survived by his 5 grandchildren David (Pat), Marie (Steve), Sara, Andrew (Alyssa) and Emilie (Chris) and his six great grandchildren. He enriched the lives of all those who knew and loved him. Walter was pre-deceased by his parents Almeda and John Balfour, his wife Virginia of 69 years, and his siblings Rev. Jim, Warren, Fred, Jack and Alice Young.

Walter’s family would like to thank the staff of the Camphill Ghent Community, for their never ending love and unwavering support of Walter, where he lived for the past nine years. The family is forever grateful.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 16, 2024 at 12 Noon at the United Methodist Church, 13 Kinderhook Street, Chatham, NY with an open house following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Camphill Ghent, 2542 NY 66, Chatham, NY 12037 or the charity of your choice. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.