GOSHEN — Roy Richard Balla passed at home, surrounded by family, on Nov. 6, 2018, after a long battle with cancer. He was the son of Evelyn and Leonard Balla of South Acworth.
Roy graduated from Vilas High School and shortly thereafter enlisted in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He was stationed in Tucson, Arizona, Coco Beach, Florida and Guam. He was also a member of the Air Force Reserves.
After his military service, he graduated from Keene State College with a degree in teaching. He went on to be a teacher and principal at Goshen-Lempster School. Roy also volunteered his time in the Goshen Fire Department, as well as being a selectman and other volunteer positions in the town.
Roy married Rae Elizabeth Hodgman on Nov. 11, 1960. He worked for a construction company in Hanover for several years and then ran the family farm for many years and also worked for a local contractor. In 1969, Roy and his two stepsons, Robert and Bruce Hodgman of Goshen, started Twin Ridge Polaris from which he retired in 2010.
Roy was predeceased by his parents, his loving wife Rae, and his brother Dan.
He leaves two brothers, Ralph and John Balla, two stepsons, one stepdaughter, Virginia Luck, and many nephews, nieces, and grandchildren.
As per Roy’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. A family gathering will be held at a later date.
The family would like to thank Lake Sunapee VNA and Hospice staff for their care and support. Also a thank you for Theresa and Alyssa.
Memorial donations may be given to Lake Sunapee VNA and Hospice or to the Goshen Volunteer Fire Department.
Roy, may you rest in peace.
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