BALDERSTON, Robert W. 'Bob'

The Record-Courier 1 Nov 2012 Robert W. “Bob” Balderston passed away at St. Alphonsus Care Center in Baker City, Ore., on Oct. 1, 2012. He was born in Philadelphia, Penn. on Nov. 10, 1924, the younger of two sons of Canby C. Balderston and Gertrude (Emery) Balderston. Bob received his early education at Westtown, Penn., graduating in 1942. As a Quaker, Bob had conscientious scruples against bearing arms. Bob was 18 when he, along with his brother Fred, volunteered with the American Field Service as ambulance drivers in September of 1942. They sailed to the Middle East with the AFS Unit Middle East 37 in January of 1943. They both served with the British 8th and 9th Armies in the Middle East, North Africa, Italy and Austria in 1943-45. He returned to the states in 1945. It was after his service that he attended University of Colorado where he met the love of his life, Dorthea Bea “Dode” Ellingson. They were subsequently married in September 1950 and moved to Unity, Oregon where he assisted in managing the Ellingson Lumber Company sawmill. They remained active in the operation, moving to Baker City in 1955. Bob and Dode moved to Englewood, Colo., in 1958, where he continued his career. He was a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity and remained an active supporter of Westtown School. Although they had no children, Bob was a favorite uncle of his many nieces and nephews. Their home in Englewood was always a welcome stop for visits. He and Dode were also avid boosters of the Denver University Hockey team and provided part time employment and support for many of the players. Bob was preceded in death by his father, mother and brother. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Dode, and many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. There will be a memorial for Bob at Coles Tribute Center on Oct. 26, 2012 at 1 p.m. followed by a private interment at Mount Hope Cemetery.