GORDON RAY BALDEN

Gordon Ray Balden, 68, of Mt. Vernon passed away on Thursday, Jan. 19 while at the Sarcoxie Nursing Center in Sarcoxie.
He was born on March 5, 1954 in Monett, son of the late George Henry Balden and Esther T. (Schmeling) Balden.
At a young age, he was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church. Gordon graduated from Monett High School with the class of 1972. As a man of honor, he served his country for over fourteen years in the Army National Guard.
On July 16, 1976, he married Terri Lynn Bradley in Monett. They have been blessed with over forty-six years of wonderful memories made together.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Robert.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 25, at McCormick - St. John’s Cemetery in Monett. Pastor James Schnakenberg will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Monett Historical Society or St. John’s Lutheran Church – Stones Prairie.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett.