Kirby Lee Balke, 56, of rural Marshall, died on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Born July 31, 1969, in Carrollton, he was the son of the late Jerry Lee Balke and Judy Pierson Balke who survives of rural Malta Bend.

Kirby lived in Saline County most of his life. He served in U.S. Army and was honorably discharged on Sept. 15, 1988.

Kirby worked for Telecom West, Stellar Group Inc., various construction and farm jobs, and Truman State Park Marina.

Just two days prior to this death, on Sunday, April 5, 2026, he married his love of the last 11 years, Shauna Plummer Lash.

In addition to his mother, Judy, and his wife, Shauna; he is survived by their four children: Amanda Gibson of Slater, Josh Smith of Marshall, Bradley Palmer of Marshall, and Keith Banty of Marshall; 11 grandchildren; his sister, Naleen Fletcher (Sonny) of Marshall; as well as other extended family and friends.

Kirby was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Balke; and a son, Damien Brown.

Visitation and funeral services were held on April 11, 2026, at Campbell-Lewis Funeral Home in Marshall with William W. Harlow officiating. Burial followed in Ridge Park Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the family and an online guestbook is available at www.campbell-lewis.com