Carol M. Balfanz, age 88, of Columbus, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 1st, 2025, at Home Again in Columbus. She was born in Milwaukee to Philip and Marcella (Ernst) Hurrle. She met her beloved husband, Ron Balfanz, in Milwaukee, and together they raised four children. Later, the family moved to Columbus, where they had their fifth child.

Carol was a woman of strong faith, initially as a member of the Catholic Church and later as an active member of the United Methodist Church in Columbus.

An accomplished seamstress, Carol spent her life sewing. For many years, she was an alterationist and dressmaker for her own business, "Carol's Corner" in which she specialized in bridal. She also participated for many years in the Make It Yourself with Wool Competition. One year she won the wool garment-making contest with a hand-crafted wool suit, which she graciously passed on to the young runner-up, encouraging the next generation of sewers. After retiring, Carol continued her passion for sewing by donating her time and talent to making pillowcase dresses for girls in Africa.

Carol was also known for her baking, particularly her Hungarian Butterhorns. She always had a jar full of Peanut and Chocolate Chip cookies, ready to share with family and friends. Carol enjoyed classical music, thrifting and antiquing. She restored wooden furniture and took pride in her work, especially when she re-finished an antique trunk after taking a class on the craft.

Carol's contributions to her community were many. She was a dedicated member of the Columbus United Methodist Women's Group, a volunteer for both Columbus and Watertown hospitals, and an active participant in the local Rotary Club. She had a heart for service, and her generosity and kindness will be remembered by all who knew her.

Carol was preceded in death by her mother at nearly 16 years old; her father; her husband, Ron Balfanz; her brother, Bob Hurrle; her grandsons Tobin and Travis Williams; many in-laws; and her dearest friend, Cecile Gozdzialski

Survivors include her son, Ronald Balfanz of North Carolina and his daughters, Heather Mahle and Melissa Balfanz of North Carolina; daughter Debora Perry of Columbus and her children Benjamen (Melissa Teela) Perry of Token Creek, Erin (David) Weisman of Columbus; Dawn Balfanz of Columbus and her daughter Alyssa (Zach) Willborn of Cottage Grove; Donna (Rick Matiya) Lester of Colorado, and her children Shantelle Lester of Texas and Jacob Lester; son Scott (Leslie) Balfanz of Colorado and their daughter, Anna Balfanz, Platteville; one brother, Don (Jan) Hurrle of Sun Prairie; many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends who will miss her dearly.

No service will be held per Carol's wishes. Memorials may be directed to an organization of your choosing.

Thank you to the staff at Home Again in Columbus, Dawn Faust, NP, and Bristol Hospice. Grandma, I wish you comfort and happiness. I will give your love to the boys.

"God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; And wisdom to know the difference."

We encourage you to share your online condolences with Carol's family at jensenfuneralandcremation.com