Cheryl Lorraine Balster

It is our privilege to honor the legacy of Cheryl Lorraine Balster who passed away peacefully in her home on January 7, 2025, at the age of 70 after a long, vigilant battle with cancer. 

Cheryl was born August 28, 1954, in Pasadena, CA to Marlys Nichols and LaMont Stetzer. Her family moved to Northern California in 1959. 

Cheryl married the love of her life, Philip Balster, on November 4, 1973. They settled in Dublin, CA where they raised 2 children, Christine and Alan. The Balsters were deeply involved in ministry and fellowship with their church family at Valley Christian Center. 

Above all, Cheryl was defined by her relationship with the Lord, Jesus Christ, who she accepted as her savior in 1981. She wholeheartedly committed her life to studying God’s word, glorifying Him and pointing others to Jesus. She served in children’s, women’s, worship, and hospitality ministries throughout her journey as a believer and has touched the lives of so many. Her impact is immeasurable. 

Cheryl had a special place in her heart for little ones. After Cheryl’s response to the Lord’s calling in 1988, the Balsters provided care for 62 foster babies over 13 years. 

Cheryl and Phil moved to Chubbuck, ID in 2001 where she established so many friendships and relationships. They have worshipped and served at Calvary Alliance Church since 2007. Cheryl also worked at Intermountain Medical where she showed compassion and care for patients as they checked in and out of the clinic. Cheryl was highly regarded by the doctors and staff. She retired shortly after her cancer diagnosis in 2019. 

No one understood Cheryl’s selfless love more deeply than her husband Phil, and together, their 51-year marriage has inspired countless others to pursue that same kind of passion and commitment. 

Cheryl was the embodiment of joy, radiated positivity and offered love to everyone she encountered. She never considered anyone a stranger and furthermore would encourage and accept all with a kind touch or a warm embrace. Cheryl was the epitome of a Proverbs 31 woman and lived by Jesus’ example in Mark 10:45 of selflessness and service to others. 

Cheryl’s cancer journey began with a stage IV diagnosis in early 2019. In July 2021 family gathered to say goodbye, but God wasn’t finished. He gave us all the precious gift of 3 1/2 more years of life and love before calling her home. In spite of a six-year battle, she never lost her zeal for life or her sense of humor. Cheryl frequently referenced Deuteronomy 31:8, “It is the Lord who goes before you, he will be with you, he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Cheryl spent her last days in prayer and praise, declaring that God has never failed her. We know Jesus has welcomed her to her heavenly home saying, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Cheryl has been healed and made whole in his presence. 

Cheryl is proceeded in death by her parents, Marlys Nichols and LaMont Stetzer, her parents-in-law, Robert and Margaret Balster, sister-in-law, Cecilia Stetzer, and brother-in-law, Bud Matlock. She is survived by husband Philip Balster, children Christine (Christopher) Frost, Alan (Tracey) Balster, granddaughters Riley, Ava, and Noel, her five siblings, Marsha Matlock, Dianne (Sam) Harris, Gregg (Candice) Stetzer, Joanne (Doug) Remer, Rhonna (Steve) Millar and all her adoring nieces, nephews, and their families. 

Cheryl’s family wants to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Francisco, PA Jennifer Robinson and the other physicians, nurses, and staff who have cared for her throughout the last six years. A special thank you to our family friend and former nurse, Jan Eastman for your precious heart for our family, and to the hospice staff at Symbii for their kindness during Cheryl’s last weeks. Our appreciation for all your compassion, dedication, and commitment to her wellness and comfort cannot be expressed adequately in words. We sincerely thank you.

The family will gather for a celebration of Cheryl's life in June.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Cheryl's name to Portneuf Health Trust.

Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting the Guestbook below.