Richard A. Balak

Richard Andrew Balak, age 81 years, passed away on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Morristown Medical Center, Morristown, NJ, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 17, 1944, in Elizabeth, NJ, he was the son of the late Andrew J. and Irene (Medvec) Balak. A resident of Readington Township, NJ since 1971, Richard leaves behind a legacy of commitment to family, community, and the outdoors.

Richard enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as a sales representative, primarily employed by EMSCO Scientific Enterprises, Inc., based in Philadelphia, PA. Educated at Seton Hall University in South Orange, NJ, he carried with him an outgoing personality and good sense of humor that endeared him to many. His commitment to family was evident in all aspects of his life, and he was known as a generous person.

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Air Force Reserves for four years, showcasing his sense of duty and service to others. His contributions to the community extended beyond his military service; he dedicated over 50 years to the Three Bridges Volunteer Fire Company, serving in multiple capacities including Chief and President, always striving to give back to those around him. Additionally, he was a long time member of the Readington Township Board of Education.

In his personal life, Richard had a profound appreciation for nature and the joys of fishing, whether it was fresh or saltwater. He was life member of Trout Unlimited and as well as an active member of the local Ken Lockwood Chapter of Trout Unlimited and the Friends of the Upper Delaware River, taking pride in his local conservation work. Additionally, he cherished time spent with family at the Jersey Shore at the Ocean Beach & Bay Club and was particularly fond of fishing the Point Pleasant canal and Manasquan inlet. 

Richard is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Barbara (Karaman) Balak of Readington Township, NJ, and their two daughters, Cynthia Trstensky of Flemington, NJ, and Elizabeth and Robert Brush of Colts Neck, NJ. He is also survived by three grandchildren: Franklin H. Trstensky and Ryan and Kaylie Brush, along with several cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws.

He was predeceased by his parents and his son-in-law, Franklin C. Trstensky. 

*Please read the visitation and service information carefully. There will be two visitations and two service times.*

There will be two staggered visitations on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. The first visitation will take place from 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM. Next, a funeral service, officiated by Father Thomas Serafin, will follow in the funeral home from 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM. The second visitation will then begin at approximately 11:00 AM and take place until 12:00 Noon in the funeral home. A firemen's service and last call beginning at 12:00 Noon will conclude the public services.  Interment in the family plot at Saint Gertrude Cemetery, Colonia, NJ will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Richard's memory may be made to the Three Bridges Volunteer Fire Company, PO Box 127, Three Bridges, NJ 08887 or to the charity of one's choice in his name. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.