John Carnegy deBalinhard, It is with profound sadness and regret that the family of John Carnegy deBalinhard of Yorkton, SK announce his passing on Monday, June 4, 2012 at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre, Yorkton, SK. John, 78, was born on October 29, 1933 in Yorkton. He was the oldest son of the late Lieutenant Stewart and Iris deBalinhard. John was the 4th generation deBalinhard to farm the family farm located three miles south of Yorkton, on the south west corner of York Lake. John became heir to the family farm after his father, Lieutenant Stewart deBalinhard was killed in action during the allied invasion of Sicily on July 28, 1943. John moved onto the farm in the fall of 1949 with a team of horses and a milk cow. He spent over 60 years of his life working the farm into one of the most attractive and prosperous farms in the Yorkton area. Many local residents have expounded on John's great ability as a cattleman and how he was greatly respected as one of Saskatchewan's finest cattlemen. John took great pleasure in working outdoors and he often confided that he was at his best working the land, buying or selling cattle, or making hay. He also loved his horses! John was predeceased by his father, Stewart deBalinhard in 1943; his brother, William deBalinhard in 1995; his mother, Iris deBalinhard in 1999 and his step-son, Jamie Cugnet in 2003. John is survived by his wife, Shirley; his step-daughter, Sherry; his brothers, Edward (Barbara) and Harvey (Carol); his sister-in-law, Norma and many nephews and nieces. By request, John's remains were cremated and his ashes scattered on the family farm. Members of the deBalinhard family wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to the management and staff of Gladstone Manor for the excellent care John received during his six month residency at that location. The family would also like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of the Yorkton Regional Health Centre for their sterling treatment and care for John. Last, but not least, a special thank you to Dale and Myrna Rhinas of Willowbrook who, as long time friends of John, continually and compassionately acted on behalf of the family in getting John to medical appointments both in Yorkton and Regina. Bill and Rhonda Aiken of Yorkton are also to be commended for their kindness and assistance to John during his illness. Those wishing to make donations in John's memory may do so by giving to the Parkinsons' Foundation or to a charity of their choice. Friends so wishing may forward their condolences to the family by visiting www.christiesfuneralhome.com Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Christie's Funeral Home & Crematorium, Yorkton, Saskatchewan.
