Marlene Balan

January 22, 1943 - September 23, 2020

Marlene Carol Balan (Lipsky) was born January 23, 1943 in Rochester, New York. She passed away peacefully on September 23, 2020 at Providence Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane, Washington from a brief illness. When Marlene was about 3 years old her family moved to Detroit, Michigan where she grew up. As a young girl growing up, Marlene took ballet, piano and ballroom dance lessons. Many weekends were also spent at the roller skating rink. She also enjoyed acting and had leading roles in several plays. Marlene graduated from Mumford High School in Detroit and then attended Wayne State University where she graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education. She then earned a Masters Degree in the same field. Marlene loved teaching and was a Kindergarten teacher for over 20 years. Marlene married her high school sweetheart Bob Balan in 1962. They had 1 daughter. In the late 1970’s Marlene and her family moved to California permanently when Bob accepted a job with United Airlines. She is preceded in death by her former husband Bob Balan, parents Rita and Irving Lipsky, sister Rhoda Lubaski, and daughter Cynthia Beth Balan. She is survived by her Granddaughter Brittani Balan Porter, Great Grandson Omasal, nephew Kevin Lubaski and several cousins To ensure the health and safety of our community, we are following all guidelines set by local, state and CDC officials. If you are planning on attending a service, please contact the funeral home in advance, so that we can plan accordingly.