Kenneth W Balzer

Kenneth W. Balzer, “Big Red”, 82, of East Hanover, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

In Loving Memory of Ken “Red” Balzer

Ken Balzer, affectionately known as “Red” or “Big Red,” was a force of nature—an unforgettable presence whose towering height of 6’5½” was matched only by his immense heart and boundless enthusiasm for life.

A standout athlete from West Side High, Red dominated the basketball court, earning All-State honors and leaving a lasting legacy as a local sports star. But his talents didn’t stop at basketball—he could command a bicycle with skill, winning park competitions, and he had a knack for yo-yo tricks, even earning titles in yo-yo tournaments. Perhaps most surprisingly, for a man of his size, Red could move—winning dance competitions in his teens and 20s, a skill he never lost, as anyone lucky enough to witness him at a wedding could attest.

Ken had a love for the water. In his younger years, he shared a 32-foot boat with his friend, Arty, making memories at Barnegat Inlet, “The Hook.” As time went on, his passion for the sea evolved into organizing fishing trips for loved ones, thanks to Captain Arty’s charter boat out of Atlantic Highlands. Those lucky enough to join Ken on these trips hauled in “doormats,” bluefish, and striped bass—testament to the good times that always seemed to follow him.

A devoted family man, Ken cherished his children’s passions, cheering them on at sports games, dance recitals, and gymnastics meets. He didn’t just attend—he got involved, serving as President of East Hanover’s youth baseball league and coaching PAL football and recreation basketball. He believed in community, in bringing people together, in giving back.

That sense of connection extended to his memberships with the Elks and the Italian American Club, where he took great pride in contributing to parades, carnivals, and various charitable efforts. And of course, in his later years, anyone looking for Red in the morning knew just where to find him—at the Dunkin' Donuts in Florham Park, laughing, storytelling, catching up with old friends. He thrived on good conversation, sharing tidbits from the entireStar Ledger, which he read religiously every morning.

Ken never let life slow him down. Even as health challenges arose, he still made time for what he loved—one last trip to Monmouth Park, another seafood feast at the inlet, always savoring the moments. A special nod to Vincent Ferrara, “Jimmy the Barber,” for making those final outings possible—true friendship at its finest.

Ken "Red" Balzer lived boldly, loved fiercely, and embraced every adventure with open arms. He was a husband, a father, a coach, a storyteller, and a friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy is one of laughter, camaraderie, and the unwavering pursuit of a good time.

And as for dieting advice? Well, Red had a foolproof plan—Jack Daniels and tuna fish.

Rest easy, Red. You were one of a kind.

Beloved husband of 54 years to Doris (De Masi) Balzer.  Devoted father of Lori Garfinkel, Chris Balzer and his wife Rose.  Cherished grandfather of Ashley, Brandon and Jared, Sofia and Serena, Chris, Rebecca and Katie.  He was pre-deceased by his parents Hans and Erika Balser. 

A memorial visitation will be held at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Thursday, June 5th from 10am – 1pm. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Kenneth’s name to your favorite charity. 

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