RICK LEE BALMAS

Rick Lee Balmas, 72, of Stotts City passed away on Sunday, April 7, 2024. He was born on April 16, 1951, in Monett, the son of the late Jack and Frances (Diotte) Balmas.
He graduated from East Newton High School with the class of 1969.
He worked most of his adult life as a heavy equipment operator for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 101 in Kansas City. He was employed by Herzog Contracting in St. Joe, Hamilton-Patton Construction in Mt. Vernon, and Connelly Plumbing in Springfield.
On Dec. 30, 1970, Rick married Joanna Landreth. They were married for over 21 years when she passed away on Jan. 21, 1992. He later found his partner in life, Janell Ann Palmer.
He is survived by his wife, Janell Balmas; one son, Scott Mark of Springfield; one daughter, Jennifer (Joe Livingston) Sickinger of Springfield; two step-daughters, Stacy Larson, of Stotts City and Daphne (Jared) Brown of Oronogo; one brother, Russ Balmas of Monett; five grandchildren; three nephews; as well as a host of extended family and friends.  
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Joanna; one brother, Jerry Balmas; and one grandson, Dylan Lee Mark.
A memorial service to celebrate his life was held on Friday, April 12, at Buchanan Funeral Home with Pastor Robert Bradow officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home in Monett.