David Lee Balensiefer

David Lee Balensiefer, 94, of West Lafayette, Indiana, passed away peacefully at his home on November 13, 2026.

David was born at home in Fowler, Indiana, on June 1, 1932, to Joseph Richard and Martha Cecilia (Ringle) Balensiefer, and was baptized into the Catholic faith on June 5, 1932. He graduated from Fowler High School with the Class of 1950. On April 15, 1952, he married his beloved Mary Ellen (Baxter). They shared nearly 44 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on January 15, 1996.

Their loving union was blessed with five children: Julia Ann (James) Moseley, James Joseph (Shiela Burton) Balensiefer, Michael David (Nancy Campbell) Balensiefer, Christine Marie (Rodney) Cowden, and Kevin Eugene (Brenda Harness) Balensiefer. David's legacy was furthered through his 15 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

David is survived by his sister, Joye Brock; his brother, Frank (Laura) Balensiefer; his sister, Kathleen Stucker-Bates; his brother-in-law, Earl Estes; his sisters-in-law, Myrt Balensiefer, Laura Balensiefer and Susan (Kenny) Benner; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, Mary Ellen, and his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Julia; his granddaughter, Anna Maude; a great-great-granddaughter, Nayvee Marie; his sisters, Joan Estes, Elizabeth Schutter, Shirley (Richard) Grauel, and Miriam (Don) Budreau; and his brothers, Eugene Balensiefer and infant brothers Richard and Stephen.

Visitation, Holy Rosary, and Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, beginning at 9:00 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 107 E. Main St., Fowler, Indiana. Burial at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Fowler will immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to organizations David supported throughout his life, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Maryknoll Missions and Habitat for Humanity, or a charity of your choosing.

Gerts, Windler & Keller Funeral Homes of Fowler, Indiana, is assisting the family with arrangements.