Karl Balfanz

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Karl David Balfanz on September 14, 2024 from a heart attack in Edmond, Oklahoma. A memorial service will be held on Friday September 27, 2024 at 11:00 with visitation following at Grace Gardens Funeral Home in Woodway, TX. Friends will be hosting a gathering at George’s.

Karl was born on October 13, 1985 in San Antonio, Texas to Kenneth and Martha (Tita) Balfanz. A proud 6th generation Texan and patriot, he was also a Son of the American Revolution. Growing up in San Angelo, Texas he was active in soccer, baseball, varsity football and math competitions. He was a tough competitor and loved his teammates. After graduating from San Angelo Central High School Karl attended The University of Texas at Austin earning a degree in Finance and Real Estate from the Red McCombs School of Business. He was a member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity and Silver Spurs forging life long friendships along the way. Karl built a successful sixteen-year career as a landman in the oil and gas industry which took him to many states across the country, allowing him to meet many people and make lasting connections. During this time he founded his company the Grizzley Land and Oil Services.

Karl’s love for his family, friends and golden retrievers was clear to all who knew him. He was known for his dedication, sense of humor, and generosity. He enjoyed watching football and golf, and was an excellent cook, always preparing Christmas dinner in honor of his mom’s birthday. An avid reader, Karl had a passion for politics and history, and never shied away from a good debate.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Col. John and Martha Cart Gerrity and Dr. Lucian T. Jones and his paternal grandparents Eugene and Olga Balfanz and his uncles Charles and Gene Balfanz.

He is survived by his parents Kenneth and Martha (Tita)Balfanz, brother Dr. Phillip Balfanz and wife Susie and nephews Miles and Adler. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles Charles and Becky Burns, Lucian and Candy Jones, Dorothy and Tommy Stubblefield, John and Margie Billings, Lori Balfanz, Glinda Balfanz, David and Carla Balfanz, and Danny Balfanz. As well as numerous cousins and lifelong family friends AC and Suzi Campagna and Jerry and Andi Berry. His loyal and beloved furry companion, Woodrow, also survives him.

The family would like to give special thanks to Brian Felder, Hunter Jahnke, Samantha Gerdes, and Becky Burns for their help.

Honorary pallbearers are Kyle Jahnke, Lane Linthicum, Brian Felder, Stan Gerdes, and Scott Kedy.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association or Fuzzy Friends Rescue of Waco.