We celebrate the beautiful life of our dear sister, Mary Margaret Balik, 71 (formerly of Spillville) who passed away on March 22, 2026, at her home in New Orleans, LA.

Mary was born August 3, 1954, to the late Robert and Helen Balik of Spillville, Iowa. In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by three brothers; Robert Balik, Anthony Balik, Jerry Balik and sister-in-law; Jane Balik.

Mary is survived by seven siblings; Kay Lowe of Conyers, GA, Joan Balik of Denver, CO, Ruth (Tom) Bernatz of New Hampton, IA, David Balik of Marion, IA, Mark (Paulette Doubek) Balik of Spillville, IA, Steve (Terri) Balik of Spillville, IA, and Lynn Balik of Alleman, IA and sister-in-law; Cathy Balik of Kalamazoo, MI.

Mary had a career dedicated to caring for and mentoring others. She received an associate’s degree in nursing at NICC in Calmar, IA in 1979 and a bachelor’s degree in nursing at Upper Iowa University in 1980. In 2009, she earned a master’s degree in nursing / health care management at Loyola University New Orleans. For 31 years (1986 – 2016), In the pursuit of her work, Mary left indelible marks on the people and places she passed through. She held various positions at Children’s Hospital New Orleans including Nurse Supervisor, Director of the Pediatric Department, and Senior Director of Acute Care. Mary was described as a phenomenally supportive boss who could fly in with her superhero cape and fix any situation. Many children were healed because of her dedication and love. Until her retirement in 2022, Mary concluded her caregiving career as a high school nurse at Rooted School New Orleans.

In addition to her earned respect professionally, Mary was equally admired for her innate sense of design and creativity which was evident in so many aspects of her life including her paintings, knitting projects, fashion, home décor, and cooking. Mary prioritized and nurtured her relationships. To many nieces and nephews, she took the honor of being recognized as the “cool aunt”. To her many friends, she was recognized as compassionate, heartfelt and always up for an adventure. Mary was a beacon of positivity and kindness and had a true zest for life even through her challenging final year of treatments for pancreatic cancer.

A Celebration of Life will be held this summer in her hometown of Spillville, Iowa. In honor of Mary, please consider making a donation to pancreatic cancer research at Lustgarten.org