Richard Lloyd Balwanz

Richard Lloyd Balwanz of Sheridan, Arkansas passed away on June 9, 2019, at the age of 71, with his daughters by his side. Rick was born on October 20, 1947 in Paragould, Arkansas to Jim and Jeanne Balwanz. He spent his early childhood in Pine Bluff before moving to Sheridan. He graduated from Sheridan High School and the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. He later moved to Austin, Texas, where he was part owner of the Texas Opry House and met his wife, Carol. They moved back to Sheridan and he took over the Sheridan Hardware and Furniture Company from his father. After 25 years, he closed the hardware store and went to work for Arkansas Farm Bureau until his retirement. Rick was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church in Sheridan, where he enjoyed singing in the choir. He also had a heart for serving the Grant County community. He was a past member of the Jaycees, past president of the Sheridan Rotary Club and a Paul Harris fellow, past president of the Sheridan Country Club, and chairman of B. Hill. Rick had previously served as a City Planning Commissioner. He was currently serving on the Sheridan City Council and the Sheridan Water Commission. His most important and fulfilling roles were that of a loving husband, father, and Papaw, as well as a loyal friend. He most enjoyed a winning Razorback season, bird watching, talking politics, and spending time with his daughters and granddaughters. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his sister, Betty Jordan, and his wife, Carol Madeley Balwanz. He is survived his daughter, Jessica Lasley (Brian) of Little Rock, daughter, Morgan Wilson (Derrick) of Sheridan; granddaughters, Caroline Lasley, Madeley Wilson, and Claudia Lasley; as well as extended family and lifelong friends. A Memorial Service will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday, June 13, 2019 at First Baptist Church in Sheridan. Visitation will be prior to the service from 1-3 p.m. also at the church. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 1201 South Rock, Sheridan, Arkansas 72150 or Grant County Museum, 521 Shackleford Road, Sheridan, Arkansas 72150. His daughters would like to express their sincere gratitude to the many doctors, nurses, and staff at UAMS who cared for their father during his stay. Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan (870) 942-1306. www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.