Obituary of Cleo P. Balthazor

Cleo P. Balthazor (nee Smitham), of Waukesha, passed away on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at the age of 96. She was born on August 8, 1922 to William and Vitlean Smitham in Stambaugh, MI. She married the love of her life, Leon, on July 25, 1942. Cleo was a member at St. Mary Catholic Church in Waukesha where she volunteered in the Women’s Ministries. She was a talented artist who had a passion for painting. Cleo also enjoyed reading and playing the organ. Most of all, Cleo cherished her time with her family, especially her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great, great grandchildren.

Cleo will be deeply missed by her children, Lee (Kate), William (Catherine), Robert (Kevin), Tom (Pamela), Michelle (William) Large, Debbie (Jeff) Block, and JoAnn (Werner) Holentunder; 19 grandchildren; many great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren. She is further survived by 3 sisters, other relatives, and many friends. Cleo was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Leon; sisters and brothers.

The visitation for Cleo will be held on Thursday, March 7, 2019 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the 11:00 a.m. Funeral Mass at St. Mary Catholic Church, 225 S Hartwell Ave. Waukesha, WI 53186. The Rev. Howard Haase will be officiating. Entombment will take place privately on Friday, March 8, 2019. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to the Susan B. Komen Foundation, 6527 Normandy Ln #201, Madison, WI 53719.

A special thank you to Jackie, Karen, Jeremy and the staff at Oak Hill Terrace and Vitas Hospice for their loving care over the last several years.