Michael Steven Balduff, Sr.

Michael Steven Balduff Sr., affectionately known as “Trouble,” passed away on April 12, 2025, after a brief yet courageous battle with cancer. Born on November 13, 1956, in Austin, Texas, to Kenneth Harold and Joyce Lorene (Poole) Balduff, Mike lived a life filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

A proud diesel mechanic and longtime owner/operator truck driver, Mike had an unmatched work ethic and a passion for the open road. For more than 25 years, he shared that journey with "his beautiful lady," Bonnie—his wife of 48 years and partner of 52. Together, they weren’t just a couple; they were a team, both in life and behind the wheel. To Mike, driving wasn’t a job—it was his vacation.

A true jack of all trades, Mike could fix anything and build just about everything. He never hesitated to lend a hand or pass on the wisdom he had picked up through what he lovingly called “life school.” He believed real learning began after graduation, and he lived that belief every day—always teaching, always helping. Known for his kind heart and joking personality, Mike brought a smile to everyone he met. Whether joking with cashiers—“You buying today?”—or declaring, “It’s a fantastic day, no matter what,” Mike had a gift for lifting spirits and spreading joy.

He found delight in the simple things: peanut butter cookies, sneaking a Reese’s cup, or sharing the art of the perfect PB&J (with no less than an inch of peanut butter) with his grandkids. These small pleasures reflected the big heart behind them.

Mike will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Bonnie; his daughters, Jessica (Frank) Donnelly and Christy (Nick) Greco; his grandchildren, Destiny “Tiny” Martin, Giovanni (Shelby) Greco, Gabriel Greco, Kara (Tadder) Rohda, Sarah (Jake) Brown, and Paxton Donnelly; and several great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Sheila Lisk, Sharon Woodward, Elaine (Butch) Gohl, Wayne (Carolyn) Balduff, and Paul (Laurie) Balduff. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Steven Balduff Jr., his parents, Joyce and Kenneth Balduff, and brothers-in-law, Joseph Lisk and John “Woody” Woodward.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Robinson-Walker Funeral Home, 501 West Street, Genoa, Ohio 43430. A funeral ceremony will follow at 2:00 p.m., with interment at Allen Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family in honor of Mike’s generous spirit. Following the service, friends and family are invited to a luncheon at the American Legion Post 324, 302 West Street, Genoa, Ohio 43430, to share stories, laughter, and celebrate the life of a man who made every day “a fantastic day.”