Gilbert Lawrence Balch, 85 years, 8 days, died Saturday, July 30, 2022, at his home in Baird.  Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 2, 2022, at Cowboy Heritage Church in Clyde with Rev. Mike Hudson officiating.  Graveside services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Tuesday in the Coleman City Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 6:00 to 7:30 Monday, August 1, 202, at Bailey-Howard Funeral Home in Clyde.

Gilbert was born July 22, 1937, in San Angelo to Marion and Sue Belle (Lindsey) Balch. He graduated from San Angelo Central High School and received his degree in poultry science from Texas A&M. He moved to Callahan County from Colorado in 1993 and married Patricia Cole in Boerne on February 24, 1995. Gilbert was a famer and rancher and a member of the Cowboy Heritage Church.

God has called many great men before Gilbert and will call many great men after him, but this one was special to many generations.  Big-hearted and consistent while raising four generations of children.  Leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.  He never met a stranger in any language, wise beyond his time and always an example of determination and hard work.  He took flight for the last time early Saturday morning, the tower confirmed his destination and he will be missed.

Gilbert is survived by his wife of 27 years, Pat Balch, of Baird; five children, Mark Balch of Houston, Debbie Crisp-Balch of McKinney, Deron Balch and wife Laurie of Abilene, Jetta Stokes and husband Bryan of Hodges and Tiffany Gary and husband Billy of Cisco; brother, Donald Balch and wife Kathy of Abilene; sister, Marion Sue DeFoore and husband John of Boerne; eleven grandchildren, Brandon Dawson, Megan Wilks, Olyvia Jackson, Trevor Jackson, Hank Stokes, Stephanie Balch, Daniel Balch, Sally Stokes, Nicholas Balch, Westyn Balch and Natalie Balch; six great grandchildren, Dallas Jackson, Mason Howeth, Blaire Dawson, Asher Wilks, River Jackson and William Balch; and several nieces, nephews and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Marion Balch and Sue Belle Balch of San Angelo.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Cowboy Heritage Church, 8468 County Road 112 N, Clyde, TX 79510.