Legacy Project
Article by Archivist Br. Lawrence Stewart

January 2nd

Brother Thomas Francis Balaz, C.S.C.

Tom was born in Edenborn, PA. After graduating from high school and working as a postal messenger, he joined the U.S. Army and served during the Korean War. After his discharge in 1955, he worked for Republic Steel in Cleveland and at the age of 27, he entered in Watertown, WI. After profession in 1960, he studied at Notre Dame and was appointed to the staff of the Post Office at Notre Dame where he held a number of positions for 27 years until his retirement in 1989. He then served on the staff of the Notre Dame Law School and also the Indiana Province Archives. Tom lived his entire community life at Columba Hall, a total of 42 years. His optimistic, welcoming, and gentle approach to his work characterized his life. He became acquainted with hundreds of faculty, staff, and students at Notre Dame. He took a keen interest in all sports and was a close friend of many of the coaches and players. Tom contracted a rare form of leukemia. With two of his confreres at his side, he told his doctor that after much prayer he would not seek any extraordinary treatment for his disease. He had faith in God's plan for him and was willing to accept his impending death. His resigned acceptance of his cancer and concern for the poor all during his life were some of the qualities admired by all who loved him.