Obituary of Iris Bala

Miss Iris Bala, a talented musician and gifted mezzo soprano opera singer, peacefully passed away surrounded by her family on July 15, 2024. Born on February 8, 1936, and raised in Windsor, Ontario, Iris was the daughter of Ukrainian immigrants Nicholas and Anna Bala.

From a young age her passion for opera singing shone brightly leading her to pursue formal training in Windsor. She earned her Associate Performer's Degree in voice and piano from the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto, further honed her skills at the Western Conservatory of Music in London, Ontario, and completed prestigious opera studies on scholarship at the renowned Juilliard School of Music in New York City.

Following her graduation, Iris embarked on a successful operatic career, captivating audiences with her performances at esteemed venues such as the New York City Opera Company, Santa Fe Opera Company, and Radio City Music Hall. She also graced the stages alongside acclaimed orchestras such as the Windsor Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, DC. Iris's talent led her to international teachers and venues in Salzburg and Munich, as well as numerous tours across Canada and the United States.

Upon the passing of her father, Iris made the heartfelt decision to leave her flourishing career in New York and return to Windsor, where she lovingly cared for her mother and devoted herself to her family and her beloved cats.

She leaves behind cherished memories with her nephews and nieces: Ron Bala (Lou Ann Sartori), Jo-Ann Bala, Ray Bala II (Tracey), Christopher Martin (Joanne), Catherine Feren (Mike), Douglas Martin (Sue), their children and grandchildren, including Raechel (Zara, Elle), Nikolas, James, James, David (Benjamin, Rosalie), Aaron, Nadia (Jaina, Mason), Alicia (Kieran, Quinn), Michelle, and Nicholas.

Iris is predeceased by her brother Ray Bala, sister-in-law Marjorie, and brother-in-law Joe Martin, and is survived by her sister Nadia Martin.

A visitation in remembrance of Iris will be held on Saturday, July 20, from 11:00 am until 12:15 pm at Windsor Chapel (Central Chapel), 1700 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor (519-253-7234). A funeral procession will follow at 12:30 pm to Sts. Vladimir and Olga Catholic Church, 601 Lake Trail Drive, Windsor (519-973-4872) for Funeral Mass at 1:00 pm. Interment to follow at Heavenly Rest Cemetery. In honour of Iris, donations can be made to Sts. Vladimir and Olga "The Icon Fund.” Please call the church for more information. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.windsorchapel.com.