The Balon family is mourning the loss of their beloved matriarch, Joan Marcia Balon, who passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, in Rockville, Maryland, at the age of 93. Joan’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and a profound dedication to her family, friends, and community. Born on February 17, 1931, in New Jersey to Manuel and Mae Rovins, Joan lived a long and fulfilling life, leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories and a profound impact on those who knew her.
Joan’s life journey began in New Jersey, where she was raised and later graduated from Highland Park High School, a place she held in fond regard throughout her life. She was a devoted wife to her husband of 64 years, Morton Balon, who predeceased her, and together they built a life that embodied love, family, and adventure. Their journey took them to various homes across New Jersey and Illinois, including Highland Park, Edison, Livingston, Metuchen, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, and Lombard, creating a wealth of experiences and memories along the way.
Professionally, Joan worked as a bookkeeper, a role that showcased her meticulous nature and dedication to her craft. Beyond her career, Joan had a passion for life’s finer pleasures. She was a talented gourmet cook, whose joy for entertaining created countless warm and welcoming gatherings for family and friends. Together with her husband, Joan shared a love for the arts, often attending theater, opera, and ballet performances that enriched their lives and fostered their shared passion for culture.
Family was at the heart of Joan’s life. She is survived by her children: Leonard Balon (Robin) of Scottsdale, Arizona; Ronni Markwell (Kenneth) of Lombard, Illinois; and Linda Balon Stein (Michael) of Gaithersburg, Maryland. Joan’s family legacy also includes seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and her sister, Ruby Zack of Edison, New Jersey. Joan’s warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love will remain etched in the hearts of her family and all who knew her. She was not only a mother and grandmother but also a source of strength, guidance, and inspiration.
Joan’s family and friends will gather to honor her memory during a Shiva, which will be observed on January 27 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Stein residence in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The gathering will provide an opportunity to celebrate Joan’s life, share memories, and offer support to her grieving family.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that contributions in Joan’s memory be made to the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, reflecting her commitment to her heritage and community.
Joan Marcia Balon’s passing marks the end of a remarkable life well lived. Her legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate to have known her. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will forever inspire those she leaves behind.
To the Balon family, the thoughts and prayers of the community are with you during this time of loss. May the memory of Joan’s extraordinary life bring comfort and strength as you honor her legacy and cherish the moments you shared. Rest in peace, Joan. You will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
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