Andrew J. Balas

Andrew J. Balas, age 63, passed away on Tuesday, March 19, 2008 at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire, WI after a yearlong battle with lymphoma. He was born August 21, 1944 in Detroit, MI to Andrew and Irene Balas. A 1963 Grosse Point, MI High School Graduate, Andrew Received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and his PhD in mathematics from the University of California at Berkeley in 1980. He then taught in the San Francisco High schools for six years. He joined the university of Wisconsin-Eau Claire faculty in 1984 after holding a faculty position at Rutgers University for four years. Andrew served as Chair of the UW-Eau Claire Math Dept. from 2003 to 2007. Andrew had a deep interest in math and math education. He published research articles in the area of complex manifolds, a sub-branch of a field of math known a differential geometry. Andrew was a truly gifted educator whom students and colleagues alike would seek out as a mentor, collaborator or teacher. He wan an expert in group learning methods and was dedicated to promoting women and minorities in math. Under Andrew’s leadership, the Math Department underwent a restructuring of its’ undergraduate requirements for non-majors that greatly enhanced their learning experience. Andrew was a lover of books, movies and conversations with family and friends. He was an advocate for peace, social justice and sustainable living. Survivors include his wife: Michelle Balas of Mondovi, WI; two children: Willow Balas and Pippin Balas both of Mondovi, WI; a sister: Linda Balas Jones of Los Angeles, CA; three brothers: Bruce (Judy) Balas of Omena, MI, Dennis (Jackie) Balas of Seven Lakes, NC and Clark (Diane) Balas of Kalamazoo, MI. Further survived by other relatives and friends. He is preceded by parents. A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 28, 2008 at 5:00 PM at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 421 S. Farwell St., Eau Claire, with a pot-luck dinner to follow. Memorials may be sent to: the Mathematics Advancement Fund, c/o UW-Eau Claire Foundation, P.O. Box 4004, Eau Claire, WI 54702 or the Center for the Study of Natural Oncology, 445 Marine View Ave., Suite 260-S, Del Mar, CA 92014. . Condolences may be made care of Plombon's All Faiths Funeral & Cremation Service, 1405 N. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire, WI 54703 or online at 866allfaiths.com.