Michael “Stanley” Balcer

Michael “Stanley” Balcer, age 68, of Olivia died Tuesday, July 27, 2021 at the St. Cloud Hospital. Visitation is Friday, August 13, 2021 from 4-6 p.m. at Dirks-Blem Funeral Home in Olivia.  Burial will be in St. Aloysius Cemetery in Olivia.  A time of fellowship will follow the burial at St. Aloysius Cemetery.

Michael Stanley Balcer was born March 21, 1953 in Olivia, MN to Frank and Ethel (Wagner) Balcer. Michael graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Bird Island in 1971. In 1978, he moved to Maui, Hawaii, where he owned the Maui No Ka Oi cleaning company and worked as a chef at the Kihei Prime Rib House. He also lived in Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho and Belize before returning to Minnesota. Once back in Minnesota, he worked at the Olivia Liquor Store and kept busy as a handyman and locksmith. Michael had a passion for building and creating. He did this through woodworking, carving, leather burning, sketching, and making jewelry. All animals had a special place in his heart. Michael crafted by hand his own ventriloquist dummy named “Spunky” and was a member of the NAAV, North American Association of Ventriloquists. He enjoyed baking and canning and he was well known for “Stanley’s Secret Seasoning.” His extreme knowledge and love of music helped to create the extensive collection that he had. Michael will be remembered for his witty one liners, jokes, infectious smile, and infamous peace sign.

Michael is survived by his siblings: Joan Balcer of Bloomington and Susan Kay (and Dr. Larry) Emery of Hayden, Idaho. Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Ethel Balcer, his sister Nancy Balcer and his brother Jerry Balcer.

Blessed Be His Memory

Serving the family…

Dirks-Blem Funeral Service, Olivia, MN