William 'Bill' Balek, 73

William “Bill” Balek, 73, of Hayden, Idaho, passed away May 6, 2025, in Butte, Mont., surrounded by his wife and children. Born in North Dakota, Bill lived a life full of hard work, adventure and deep love for his family.

He is survived by his wife, Jeanne; his children: Brady (fiancé, Kayla), Allison (fiancé, Clint), and Molly (son-in-law, Ryan); grandchildren: Griffin, Hadley, Teigan, Piper and Jordan; and soon-to-be bonus grandchildren: Blayne, Ellie and Calvin.

Bill held countless jobs across many states — managing restaurants, building homes and businesses, operating a houseboat rental company on Lake Coeur d’Alene, and later working as a boat manufacturer’s representative. He was a true jack-of-all-trades and a gifted storyteller who never met a stranger.

He loved time at home with family in Hayden, winters in Arizona and traveling with Jeanne. Nothing brought him more joy than serving as an open door for his children, grandchildren and friends. It was then that he made the most memories — hosting, laughing, storytelling and simply enjoying life. 

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, May 19, 2025, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 625 E. Haycraft Ave., Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, with a reception to follow. 

Please visit Bill’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.