Ben Balsano

CARBONDALE - Ben Balsano, 87, passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at his home.

Ben was born on July 15, 1937 to Angelo and Myrtle (Spangler) Balsano in Murphysboro. He married Kathryn Schwartz in August of 1997 in Carbondale.

After a long, distinguished career, Ben retired from FW Woolworth Company. He was often known as a happy, storytelling, Italian ball of life. He brought much joy and happiness to all who had the pleasure of meeting him.

Ben is survived by his wife Kathryn, children Pamela Portell, Sue Ann (Jamie) Wohner, and Mark (Tammy) Balsano; grandchildren Michael (Abby) Portell, Sarah (Tyler) Flood, Morgan (JT) Perkins, Macey (Andy) Flaugher, Trey Wohner, Haley Wohner, Ben Wohner, Nicolas Balsano, Ryan Balsano, and Reese Balsano; great-grandchildren Brody Perkins, Marley Flaugher, and Nathan Flaugher; and step-children Tricia (Fran) Yanuzzi, and Andrew Schwartz.

He is proceeded in death by his late wife Patricia (Hendricks) Balsano.

The funeral mass will take place at 11:00 am on Monday, March 17, 2025 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church with Father Thomas Barrett officiating. Burial will follow at St. Andrew's Cemetery in Murphysboro. A time of gathering and fellowship will follow after the committal service at 1:00 pm at the Jackson County Country Club. All are welcome to attend. Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at Meredith Funeral Home.

For those who cannot attend the service on Monday, it will be live streamed by clicking here: Live Stream

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Murphysboro Food Pantry in Murphysboro, and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Meredith Funeral in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Ben, visit www.meredithfh.com.