William Ronald Balazsi

William Ronald Balazsi, lovingly known to everyone as Bill, passed away on February 17, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on August 22, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan, Bill was the beloved son of the late William Balazsi and Ella (Icso) Balazsi.

Bill built a life rooted in family, friendship, laughter, and loyalty. He shared his life with his devoted wife, Nina. They were married for 66 wonderful years and were together an additional four years before marriage, spending a remarkable total of 70 years side by side. Together they created a home filled with love, humor, and countless memories.

He was a proud and loving father to Mark (Sherry) Balazsi, Mindy (John) Schultz, and David (Jill) Balazsi. Bill’s legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Michael (Christie) Trumble, Neil (Rebecca) Balazsi, Kristin (Al Pacheco) Trumble, Brenton (Tiffany Rayburn) Balazsi, Lindsey (Kelli) Balazsi, Carly (Matt) Thorn, Anthony (Ashley) Balazsi, and Garrett (Mackenzie Donahue) Balazsi.

He was especially proud of his great-grandchildren: Jack Bovia, Michael Bovia, Peyton Trumble, Easton Balazsi, Ella Trumble, Mavis Thorn, Blaze Thorn, Rylan Thorn, Cameron Balazsi, and Kinsley Balazsi; and his great-great-grandchild, Leo Bovia. His family brought him immeasurable joy, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

Bill valued lifelong friendship. He often shared that he met his dear friend Robert Lepidi in kindergarten, and their friendship endured throughout the decades — a testament to Bill’s loyalty and steady presence in the lives of those he loved.

A member of the American Legion in Lincoln Park, Bill enjoyed camaraderie and community. In his younger years, he loved sports and competition. He bowled, coached Little League baseball for his children, and even played hockey with the boys in the basement — much to the demise of many light bulbs, which he would recount with a grin.

Bill was a devoted fan of college football, especially University of Michigan football, and faithfully followed the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions. He also enjoyed spending time at the casino and relaxing with a good cigar.

He will be remembered for his familiar sense of humor — especially for telling the same jokes again and again — often drawing groans and laughter in equal measure. Those repeated stories and punchlines will now echo warmly in the hearts of his family.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 1:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Solosy Funeral Home. Bill will lie in state on Friday, February 20, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM, with a funeral service and military honors at 11:00 AM at the funeral home.

Interment will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest with honor.

Bill’s life was marked by devotion to family, enduring friendships, laughter, and love. His memory will live on in the stories retold — even the ones we’ve all heard before — and in the generations who carry his name and his spirit forward.