Dennis Roy Balder, age 75, of Pocahontas, passed away Sunday, January 29, 2023 at the Pocahontas Community Hospital in Pocahontas, IA.

Dennis was born July 15, 1947 in Fort Dodge, Iowa. He was the son of Roy and Marjorie (Stroup) Balder. Dennis attended country school in Grant Township from Kindergarten to 4th grade. When the country school closed he then went to school in Pocahontas. He graduated from Pocahontas Community High School in 1965. Dennis went to Iowa State University for a short time and then enlisted with the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. Dennis was proud to be a Vet and serve his country. He received the Air Force Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal for his commitment and dedication.

Dennis then met the love of his life, Arlene Francis Glosemeyer. They were married on March 24, 1973. The coupled settled near Pocahontas where they farmed and raised their family. To this union, three children were born: Sandra Renea, Gregory Lee, and Nathan Todd.

Besides being a farmer, he worked at Cargill in Fonda, security officer in Humboldt, Scrivner/Fleming in Laurens, IA, and Ag Partners in Fonda, IA.

He loved farming, bowling, spending time with family and cheering for the Chicago Cubs. He wants to be remembered as a brother, husband, father, Papa and special friend. He would also want you to know: "God loves you, and so do I."

Dennis was selfless. He enjoyed serving others and praising the Lord. His heart overflowed with Joy, Peace, Love and Strength. He just wanted a loving family. He wrote: "Quit crying and start praising." "I never died, I just fell asleep." and "I'm going home to Jesus, my home-home."

Survivors include his children, Sandra (Clayton) Oachs of North Mankato, MN, Gregory (Dawn) Balder of West Des Moines, Nathan (Elizabeth) Balder of Ida Grove; grandchildren, Amber, Chase, Issac, baby boy due in June, Zachary, Luke, Benjamin, Annamarie; great-grandchildren, Cayden, Rylynn, Makenna, Carson; his sisters, Julie (Steve) Nix of Littleton, CO, Janet (Robert) Bellows of Pocahontas, and Betty (Jeff) Bollard of Pella.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Roy (2012) and Marjorie (1984) Balder, his wife Arlene Balder (1998), and his grandson Noah Balder (2017).