Gerald L. &8220;Jerry&8221; Balfe, age 78, 813 N. Teal Place, Sioux Falls, S.D., died Thursday, Nov. 16, 2006, at Avera McKennan Hospice. A memorial service was held Nov. 20 at George Boom Funeral Home.

Gerald L. &8220;Jerry&8221; Balfe, son of Vincent J. and Laura (Hannigan) Balfe was born Jan. 16, 1928, in Mankato. He grew up in Albert Lea and received his education at Albert Lea High School.

Jerry enlisted in the United States Navy, served in the South Pacific and held the rank of 3rd

Class.

Jerry was united in marriage with June Casey on April 1, 1948, in Albert Lea. The couple then moved to Sioux Falls, S.D., where Jerry worked as a Meat Inspector for John Morrell & Co. for 30 years.

Survivors include his children, daughter Patricia (Fred) Thompson of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; son Michael (Angela) Balfe of Sioux Falls, S.D.; daughter and caregiver Amy (Charles) Deserly of Sioux Falls, S.D.; six grandchildren, special granddaughter, Katie Day; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, June, in 2005; brother, Richard; infant daughter, Amy Kathleen; and his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Diabetes Association, and Avera McKennan Home Hospice.

Arrangements were by George Boom Funeral Home, 3408 E. 10th St., Sioux Falls, S.D. 57103. A complete obituary and online registry is available at www.georgeboom.com.