Thomas "Tom" James Balis, age 70, a lifelong resident of Colville, WA passed away September 23, 2024 in Spokane, WA.  Tom was born on February 6, 1954 in Colville, the son of Kenneth Charles and Marjorie Emma (Henderson) Balis.

Tom was raised on the family farm just north of Colville in the Williams Lake valley.  There he learned to hunt and fish and experience his earliest adventures.  Tom attended school in Colville where he graduated as a twelve-year senior in 1972.  He felt fortunate to live on the farm surrounded by countless treed acres and where Mill Creek flowed year-round through his the "back yard".  Tom had a passion for nature conservation and was a steward of the many animals and natural resources present on the property.  He worked in Colville for Dick Eveland creating dental forms and implants for years.  He later worked for Scott's Taxidermy where he was trained by Pat Scott in the art and science of Taxidermy.  Tom enjoyed this work and continued taxidermy at his home after Pat closed the store in Colville.  Tom shared many years in marriage with Anne Parkin of Colville.  They later part ways and Tom remained on the farm.

He loved to rise before the sun and have a line in the water as the morning dawned.  He hunted every year and loved the presence of nature that surrounded him as he patiently awaited the perfect moment to harvest.  Tom loved to read and had held in hand every publish book of Louis Lamore.  He also watched every episode of Marty Stouffer Wild America.  His passion for the outdoors was tireless.  Tom had the opportunity to hunt the Northwest Territory and New Zealand.  He harvested many species including a Boone and Crockett bear and caribou.  Tom was a man who was loyal to a fault and generously loving.

Tom was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Marjorie.

Tom is survived by his son, Ryan Balis (Jasmine) of Plano, IL; his sisters, Barb Titus (Norm) of Colville, WA, Sandy Pierre of Colville, WA, grandchildren, Coen Balis and Lincoln Burns; a host of nieces, nephews and extended family.

The memorial service for Thomas "Tom" James Balis will begin at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024 at Tom's home.  Memorial contributions may be given to wildlife conservation.  Please visit the online memorial and sign the guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com.  Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements.