Richard E. Balvanz

Richard E. Balvanz, 74, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, died Sunday, April 13, 2025. A visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Monday, April 21, 2025, at Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Cedar Rapids. A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the funeral home.

Richard was born on June 24, 1950, in Perry, Iowa. He was raised by Gerald and Elizabeth (Brown) Balvanz. He graduated from Iowa City High School and later attended Kirkwood Community College. On June 27, 1992, he married Pamela Ann Cahalan in Marion.

Richard began his career working in grocery stores before joining Rockwell Collins. Over the years, he held a variety of positions across several industries, eventually retiring in 2015.

A man of faith, Richard was a devout Christian. He was also a proud shareholder of the Green Bay Packers—yes, one whole share! He loved cheering on his team with a spirited “Go Pack, Go!” Richard also enjoyed watching eagles along the river and catching car races whenever he could.

Some of his fondest memories were made around the poker table with his grandchildren—moments they will always treasure. And when it came to camping in Palo, Richard was always the one up early, making breakfast for everyone.

Survivors include his wife, Pamela Balvanz; mother, Elizabeth Balvanz; children, Jenny (Brad) Leichsenring, Chad (Kristi) Balvanz, Jason (Patty) Balvanz, Dawn (Jeff) Petersen, and Dana (Bob) Brooks; grandchildren, Sarah Authier, Hannah Leichsenring, Noah Leichsenring, Robert Costly, Courtney (Evan) Van Steenhuyse, and Owen Brooks; great-grandchildren, Ace and Kingston Authier; and siblings, Doug, Greg, and Ann.

He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald Balvanz; and his beloved dog, Foster.

Memorials may be directed to Melanoma Skin Cancer Research or local Autism organizations.