Teresa Jones posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2023

My sincere condolences to all of you who were/are nearest to Laura ... she was a simply brilliant, wise and compassionate woman who lived her faith in genuine, generous and inspiring ways. I am truly humbled and grateful to have been mentored by her. No doubt she won't "leave you alone" :) as you build a new relationship with her in spirit in the months and years to come! Bless her and bless all of you...

Elizabeth McAdam posted a condolence

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

I am sad to learn of Laura's death. She was a wonderful person. When I was a CCS diaconal student in southern Saskatchewan I was fortunate to work with Laura in the New Venture PC. I learned much from her words, her example and her presence. The church has been blessed by her presence. Thank you Laura for everything. I think of you every time I check my tires before setting off on a country drive! Elizabeth McAdam

(rev.) Heather Sandilands, Diaconal Minister posted a condolence

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

I am so very sorry to hear of Laura's death. She was a wonderful friend and mentor to me when I was first commissioned and settled to Grasslands PC. She was also a fabulous mentor to my partner Elizabeth McAdam, who often was engaged as Pulpit Supply at New Venture PC. I often quote Laura, and share her wisdom, with those of my rural and very small communities of faith in MB, about the power of a small group of people committed to a project. And I benefitted long after she stopped working with the Committee on Diaconal Ministry through General Council Office; she helped bring attention and respect to our particular stream of ministry. May your memories bring more smiles than tears. She certainly was a blessing. Thank you for sharing her with the Wider Church.

Walter Farquharson posted a condolence

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

Unfortunately we had an area power outage this afternoon just as the congregation was singing "I was there to hear your borning cry". It was disappointing to not be able to join family and friends in the rest of the celebration of Laura's life. The tribute spoken was truly celebrative and inspiring. The chuckles were an essential part of that -"Go ahead, try it your way..." I saw that several times at some Conference Executive meetings (and other occasions). The beautiful thing about it was the lack of any arrogance or smugness. "Who knows, you might be right. I might be wrong. Important thing is to get the job done." (Not words I heard her speak other than in my imagination.). She had the strength and grace to not own, or try to own, the way to reach the desired goal. Walter Farquharson, Saltcoats, Sk.

John Crawford posted a condolence

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

To the family, friends, loved ones. I am thankful for the friendship and encouragement from Laura while she worked at St. Andrew's College and Cypress Hills Presbytery. Margaret and I appreciated her help and support very much.

Walter Farquharson posted a condolence

Tuesday, May 9, 2023

Over the years working with Laura in the church was a delight. Integrity shone through in every office she held, every group she was part of. All coupled with a quick and infectious gift of humour and laughter. Her genuine love for people, for community and church will live on in the lives of all who knew and loved her. I marvel at the way she somehow lived a balance that didn't see her diverse loyalties to family, local and broader communities, as conflicting. Blessings to all who remember her and hold her in their hearts. Walter Farquharson

Meredith Cherland posted a condolence

Tuesday, May 9, 2023

Laura Balas was a loving and lovely member of the Saskatchewan Christian Feminist Network for many years, and I have always admired her. She was strong, firm, and full of common sense. I appreciated the way she shared Donwyn's passing with all of us, and allowed us to watch Don Christopher grow up. What a generous soul. Don Christopher, I send you my sympathy. You had an outstanding mother. Love to all who mourn her, Meredith Cherland Regina, Saskatchewan

Karen Winsor posted a condolence

Monday, May 8, 2023

To the Laura Balas family, I am sending my sincere condolences and thoughts. Laura was such a kind, giving person.

Lois Ross, Ottawa posted a condolence

Monday, May 8, 2023

It is sad to hear of Laura's passing. Though we have not see each other for many years because of the distance, I will always remember our working together on social justice issues, and the many meetings we attended together. Laura was wise, tolerant, patient, kind and caring, and determined. She had a quiet presence and great strength... and her way of being was memorable. Since condolences to her family and friends. I will always remember her positive influence.

Loraine MacKenzie Shepherd uploaded photo(s)

Monday, May 8, 2023

We remember Laura Balas as woman of quiet and confident wisdom. Nothing seemed to rattle her. She was a woman of integrity, committed to compassionate justice with a smile that said, “Things will be alright.” She was a strong, steady presence with the United Church and with the SK Christian Feminist Network. She leaves a lasting legacy. Here's to fond memories of Laura! Loraine MacKenzie Shepherd & Nancy Pinnell

Sheila Lavender posted a condolence

Sunday, May 7, 2023

I met Laura when she so capably and gently served as Principal of St. Andrew's College. It was a blessing to watch her serve the College and the greater church with the gifts and wisdom she brought to her work. My condolences to those of you who will be especially touched by her departure. Rest in peace, Laura. Sheila Lavender, Saskatoon

Camille Bell posted a condolence

Sunday, May 7, 2023

Sincere condolences on the passing of Laura to all family members . Our thoughts and prayers are with you . Ftom Camille Ross Bell of Gravelbourg

Katharine Anderson posted a condolence

Sunday, May 7, 2023

My heart is so full of memories of Laura. The photo of Laura is so beautiful, just as we always remember her. We have not seen her for many years but living in Saskatchewan for many years and getting to know Laura is a treasure we hold in our hearts. She was one of a kind, a woman who was so generous, committed to family, friends , community , church in ways that were examples to all who knew her. She had a great and sometimes wicked sense of humour. She enriched the lives of those who knew her. Gratitude that we can remember her with deep love. Bob & Katharine Anderson

Carole Beal McKenzie posted a condolence

Saturday, May 6, 2023

With the intuitive wisdom of an practical woman, Laura made some changes others didn't know how to do, and she guided St Andrews College onto a life-giving path and put things right again. In countless ways Laura humbly made an amazing difference in the world around her, and many benefit from her love. Thank you Laura.

Don Thomson posted a condolence

Saturday, May 6, 2023

To the Balas family. Donwin and Gus.. I don't think I ever met either of you, alas, because i treasured immensely the friendship I experienced with your Mom(and Dad). We were active in United Church, specifically , Cypress Hills Presbytery and through that venue and other meetings became true and trusted friends, My most sincere condolences, I will truly miss our occasional visits. Don Thomson, Pennant, Sask Just for interest sake, There was a Don And Laura Thomson AND a Don And Laura Balas , often clarification was requested..

Dea. Dr. Richard Manley-Tannis lit a candle

Saturday, May 6, 2023

On behalf of the entire St. Andrew's College community, we extend our love and gratitude for Laura to her family and friends. Her time as Principal is celebrated during a difficult time in the College's journey. Her calm and confident presence allowed the College to transition well into a place of abundance. Laura is well loved and will be sorely missed.

Laura Loverin posted a condolence

Friday, May 5, 2023

I am so saddened by Laura’s passing. She will forever be remembered by me as our steadfast, guiding, hopeful and believing leader in our United church families. She had many talents which she gladly shared. She was truly an inspiration. Our deepest sympathies to all who loved and valued her.

Carolina uploaded photo(s)

Friday, May 5, 2023

Carolina lit a candle

Friday, May 5, 2023

The family of Laura Balas uploaded a photo

Friday, May 5, 2023

Posts to the tribute of Laura Balas