ROCKVILLE, MARYLAND – Joan Marcia Balon, mother, grandmother, sister and a bookkeeper, died peacefully on January 23rd, 2025, in Rockville, Maryland, after a long and fulfilling life. She was 93
Born on February 17, 1931, in New Jersey, Joan was the cherished daughter of Manuel and Mae Rovins. Her early years were spent in the Highland Park area, and she was a proud graduate of Highland Park High School, where she made many lifelong friendships.
Joan’s life was one of love, family, and adventure. She married the love of her life, Morton Balon, and together they shared 64 wonderful years of marriage. Throughout their life together, the couple moved several times, creating warm homes and treasured memories in places such as Highland Park, Edison, Livingston, and Metuchen in New Jersey, as well as Buffalo Grove, Chicago, and Lombard in Illinois. Each new location brought them closer as a family and allowed them to form close ties in each community.
Joan worked as a bookkeeper for many years, contributing to her family’s well-being with a keen sense of organization and responsibility. But it was in her home where Joan truly shone. A gourmet cook with a passion for entertaining, she loved preparing elaborate meals for her family and friends, always ensuring everyone felt welcome. Her dining table was a place where laughter, conversation, and the rich flavors of her cooking blended into unforgettable memories.
In addition to her talents in the kitchen, Joan and Morton shared a deep appreciation for the arts. They frequently attended theatre performances, operas, and ballets, relishing in the beauty and culture that surrounded them. Their shared love for the arts added a sense of enrichment and joy to their life together.
Joan was predeceased by her beloved Morton, but she leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She is survived by her three children, all of whom were deeply cherished by her: Leonard Balon (Robin) of Scottsdale, Arizona; Ronni Markwell (Kenneth) of Lombard, Illinois; and Linda Balon Stein (Michael) of Gaithersburg, Maryland. Joan’s family was the pride of her life, and she adored her seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, who brought her endless joy in her later years. Additionally, she is survived by her sister, Ruby Zack, of Edison, New Jersey, with whom she shared a special bond throughout her life.
Joan’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her warmth, kindness, and generosity of spirit will forever be remembered by her family and friends. She was a beacon of love and strength for her children and grandchildren, who will continue to carry her memory with them.
A shiva service will be held to honor Joan’s life on January 27th, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the home of her daughter, Linda Stein, in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The family invites all who knew Joan to attend and share their memories, offering comfort and support during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Joan’s memory to the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, an organization close to her heart. This contribution will continue her legacy of kindness and generosity, ensuring that her spirit lives on through the support of others.
Joan Marcia Balon will be dearly missed but will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved her.