Obituary of Laura Balas

Laura Balas (nee Anderson)

December 16, 1936 - May 3, 2023

It is with great sadness that the family of Laura Pearl Balas (nee Anderson) of Aneroid, SK, announces her passing on May 3, 2023. 

Laura is survived by her son, Don Christopher (Jennifer Oleson), son-in-law Brian Sayers, grandchildren Brad (Crystal) Sayers, Amy (Richard) McDowell, Elliot and Finley Balas, great-grandchildren Kyler, Carter, and Ava Sayers and River, Sequoia, and Rowan McDowell, great-great-grandchild, Sadie Sayers; sisters Ellen Shapley and Joan (Kerm) Sharpe, brother-in-law Wilfred Burns, sister-in-law Mary Anderson, partner Ken Pigott and his family, and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Laura was predeceased by her husband Don Balas, her daughter Donwyn Sayers, parents Oscar and Florence Anderson, sister Patsy Burns, brother George Anderson, and brother-in-law Don Shapley.

Laura Balas grew up in a close knit family near Hazenmore and Aneroid, SK. She married Don Balas of Wallard, SK, in 1954. Together they farmed south of Aneroid and raised their two beloved children, Donwyn, born in 1955, and Don Christopher, born in 1981. Laura was heavily involved in her community. She worked on the farm, taught sewing classes, led 4-H, was an active member of the Stitch and Chatter Club, and worked in various capacities for the United Church of Canada for 40 years, including serving as the Principal of St. Andrew’s College in Saskatoon. Laura took great pride in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchild. She enjoyed baking, quilting, and sewing and loved to spend time with family. Laura enjoyed the last nine years of her life with partner, Ken Pigott, visiting with their neighbours and friends at the 50 Plus, playing cribbage, and travelling together. 

A Celebration of Laura’s life will be held at the Aneroid Community Hall in Aneroid, Saskatchewan on Wednesday, May 10, 2023 at 1 o’clock. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Piche-Hawkins-Grondin Funeral Chapels. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the Aneroid 50-Plus, Box 42 Aneroid, SK S0N 0C0 or a charity of your choice in Laura’s name.