Joseph "Joe" Shmavon Balbalian

Joseph Shmavon Balbalian, 90, of Salem, passed away peacefully in the presence of his children on April 28th, 2023. Joe was born in New York City, in March 1933, to two survivors of the Armenian genocide. Following a tour of duty in the Army, he began a career in public service as a social worker with child protective services in the state of New York. Drawn by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, he and his wife and son moved to Salem in 1971 where he worked as a social worker in the community care program at the Veterans Administration Medical Center until he retired.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 55 years, Irene. He is survived by his children Craig and Clarissa; Daughter in law, Trish; three step-grandchildren; two great-grandsons; many cousins; and his dear friend, The Count, himself.

A long-term associate member of the First United Methodist Church and avid music lover, Joe enjoyed singing with his church choir, the VA choir, and the Barbershoppers.

The family thanks Salem Fire and EMS, Lewis Gale Medical Center, the staff at Our Lady of The Valley nursing home, and Good Samaritan Hospice. All of their services to Joe are greatly appreciated.
A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Salem at 2 p.m., with Pastor Alan Combs officiating. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Salem, Our Lady of The Valley nursing home, Good Samaritan Hospice, or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.