Obituary of Halil Balla

Halil (Al) Balla peacefully passed away on November 11, 2024, at the age of 100. Born in Tirana, Albania, on September 13, 1924, Halil touched the lives of many over the course of his remarkable century. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Shazade (Sasha), in 2018. Halil leaves behind his three loving children: Tefta Balla, Ron Balla, and Donika (Martin) McFarlane. He will be deeply missed by his cherished grandchildren, Sabrina (Chad) Semande, Deanna (Joe Naiem) McFarlane, Eric McFarlane, and Gregory (Vanessa Chiarenza) McFarlane, who adored every moment spent with their "Gjyshi."

Halil’s journey took him from Albania to Italy, Australia and in 1969 to Canada where he made Windsor his home. He worked at Chrysler’s before retiring and embracing his new role as a full-time grandparent. Halil was a devoted family man, always putting his loved ones first and stressing the importance of togetherness. He enjoyed many mornings riding the City of Windsor bus to the Coffee Exchange, where he savored an espresso and exchanged friendly banter with the regulars.

A man of deep curiosity, Halil had a lifelong passion for history. He will also be fondly remembered for his infectious laughter, his unwavering loyalty to the Montreal Canadiens, and his unending rivalry with the Boston Bruins. The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional staff at Huron Lodge for the care and compassion they provided during his final days.

Halil was the guiding light of our family, and while we will miss him more than words can express, we find comfort in the legacy of love, laughter, and warmth he leaves behind.

Visitation will be held at Windsor Chapel Funeral Home (South Chapel), 3048 Dougall Avenue on Saturday, November 16, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. to the time of the Funeral Service at 1:00 p.m.  Cremation to follow.  In Lieu of flowers, donations to the Windsor Essex County Humane Society or the Windsor Cardiac Wellness Program would be appreciated by the family.  Memories and condolences can be shared online when you visit www.windsorchapel.com