Obituary of Kathleen M. Halko

Kathleen M. (Balch) Halko, 53, of Syracuse passed suddenly on Friday. Her love, generosity for others, strength, wisdom, and friendship will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Kathleen was born in Syracuse on May 8, 1965. She graduated from Bishop Ludden High School.

Kathleen worked as a bank teller early in her career. Her hard work ethic propelled her to advance her career. She was employed as a Financial Aid Officer at Syracuse University for 19 years. Throughout her professional life, Kathleen gained many trusted co-workers whom became friends. Kathleen was a beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She dedicated her life to caring for her family and friends, always. Kathleen enjoyed traveling, was an avid fan of Syracuse University Athletics, and enjoyed dancing to Prince.

Kathleen is predeceased by her cherished husband, John Mark Halko; her mother, Eleanor (Miceli) Balch; her sister, Patricia Balch-Liepke; her mother in law, Trudy (Zalewski) Halko; and her brother in law Mark John Halko.

Survivors: her best friend and daughter Kara (Ryan) Zarnowski; her son Joshua (Edward Przybylski) Halko; her father Sewell M. Balch, Jr.; her brothers Michael (Marilou) Balch, Thomas (Laurie) Balch, and Andrew (Dan Woytowicz) Balch; her father in law John P. Halko; and her brother in law Paul (Barbara) Halko. She is also survived by her companion dog Angus, her granddaughters, Isabella and Paityn, her nephews, nieces, great nephews, great nieces, extended family, and lifelong friends.

Kathleen's love and passion for her loved ones will endure eternally with all who knew her. May her soul rest peacefully beside her beloved husband and mother in heaven.

Services: 11am Wednesday at Our Lady of Hope, 4845 South Salina St., Syracuse. Burial will follow in Valley Cemetery. Calling hours will be 4 to 7 pm Tuesday at Tindall Funeral Home, 1921 W. Genesee St., Syracuse.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to the Leg Up Program c/o AAGS, P.O. Box 94, Liverpool, NY 13088.