Robert J Balik

Robert “Bob” J. Balik, age 83, of Kalamazoo, left us suddenly on October 27, 2025, surrounded by love and memories of a life well-lived — one full of purpose, kindness, and quiet joy.

Born on April 25, 1942, in Decorah, Iowa, to Robert and Helen (Bouska) Balik, Bob lived his life with a sharp mind, a generous heart, and a steady sense of purpose. A graduate of South Winneshiek High School, he went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, before entering Officer Candidate School in the U.S. Air Force. Bob later earned his master’s degree from the University of Utah and his Ph.D. in finance from the University of Iowa — a path that reflected his lifelong curiosity and love of solving complex problems.

For 30 years, Bob inspired students as a dedicated Professor of Finance at Western Michigan University’s College of Business. Known for his brilliance, dry wit, and no-nonsense teaching style, he challenged students to think critically and see the logic behind the numbers — a skill that earned him lasting respect (and the occasional “survivor” badge from his more serious students). Bob was a proud recipient of a Fulbright scholarship to teach in the Czech Republic.

Beyond the classroom, Bob poured his time and talents into his community. A longtime member of the Breakfast Optimist Club of Kalamazoo (BOCK), he valued the fellowship and the opportunity to give back in tangible ways. He also volunteered for many years with Habitat for Humanity, lending both his technical skills and quiet determination to help build homes for others. He loved volunteering at Red Arrow Golf Course and could often be found swapping stories with friends and patrons.

Bob found joy in the details — whether tackling a fix-it project, keeping score in a competitive game of cards, or engaging in good-natured teasing about who was cheating.

Another love and extreme point of pride was Western Michigan hockey. He would light up, beaming with pride when he would discuss how the big under-dog Broncos, with far inferior NIL money to buy players with, outplayed and dominated well-paid, heavily favored opponents all the way to a National Championship. It's truly special he was able to witness such an incredible feat.

In 1998, life gave Bob a beautiful second chapter when he reunited with his high school sweetheart, Catherine Rausch Kuennen. On May 6, 2000, they married and spent 25 wonderful years together filled with laughter, partnership, and love.

Bob is survived by his wife, Cathy Balik; his stepdaughter, Colleen Kuennen; stepson, Kelly (Cathy) Kuennen; grandchildren, John (Madison) Dugan, Jimi (Autumn) Dugan, Alexis Kuennen, and Victoria Kuennen; great-grandson, Leo Dugan; and his siblings, Kay Lowe, Joan Balik, Ruth (Tom) Bernatz, David Balik, Mary Balik, Mark (Paulette) Balik, Steve (Terri) Balik, and Lynn Balik, along with many nieces and nephews who cherished their “Uncle Bob.” He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Helen (Bouska) Balik, and brothers, Tony (Jane) Balik and Jerry Balik.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Bob’s life on Friday, October 31, 2025, from 2:00–5:00 PM at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, 3926 S. 9th Street, Kalamazoo.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Bob’s giving spirit with a donation to the Optimist International Foundation (oifoundation.org/us-canada-donate.cfm) or Habitat for Humanity (habitat.org/donate).

Bob lived his life with integrity, curiosity, and kindness. His dry humor, mentorship, and love will be remembered and carried forward by all who were lucky enough to know him.

Helms Funeral Home is not handling the arrangements.