Gregg Balestrin

(From Parker Mortuary)

Gregory “Gregg” Balestrin, passed away on November 11, 2025 in Joplin MO at the age of 64. He was born on March 6th 1961.

Gregg was the best husband, father, brother and, friend to all who knew him. He never met a stranger. In less than 10 minutes he would know everything about you. He spent his career doing what he loved, running heavy construction equipment. He started out driving his first dump truck at 16, the day he got his license. He was admired by so many in the industry, most saying he was the best backhoe operator they had ever seen, working on small projects up to large, including the Connor Hotel, the old St. Johns, Freeman Hospital, Thousand Oaks Center and, Joplin Library. 

He worked on most every commercial building build in the 80’s and 90’s. He built thousands of yards and laid miles of pipe. He was able to do all this beside his dad, Don and brother Donnie. Gregg enjoyed his hobby’s of woodworking, selling beautiful furniture creations he made, He also loved his guns. He grew up an avid hunter with his cousins and uncles. He encouraged his kids and granddaughter to learn to shoot. He loved fishing and just hanging by the fire pit with his family or by the fireplace that he loved. He would have it going everyday if he could.

Gregg married the love of his life, Debbie, on February 14th, 1981. It was love at first site. He proposed after 3 days showing up 2 days later in a dump truck and a ring. 44 years later and more in love than ever. They have 2 children that he loved so much and a beautiful granddaughter, Addisyon, and the best daughter-in-law. They all took such good care of Gregg and spoiled him all the time. If they could have just moved in with him, he would have been ecstatic. 

Gregg's life was a testament to the fact that the simple things in life are the most profound. He taught his children that they could do anything they set their minds to. Just like him. And, to be kind to everyone, love hard, work hard and, play hard. He taught his daughter to work on cars, run equipment and, to never need to depend on a man to take care of her. He taught his son everything about construction equipment and the importance of being a hard worker. By the age of 3 he could tell you all about each piece of equipment and what they did. He instilled values in his kids and how to treat others. He was a hard working and generous family man who would do anything for anyone who needed help. So many people loved him. He had the best sense of humor. You couldn’t have a conversation without having a good laugh. He was a prankster, always hiding under the kids bed and even getting a goat and tying it to his brothers front porch for example.

So many hearts were broken the day he passed. Gregg always told Debbie if she was feeling down, “Don’t be sad, don’t be blue, I’m the bird who will worry for you.”

Now, he’s our angel who will watch over us and comfort us always.

Gregg is survived by his wife Debbie Balestrin, children Amber Balestrin, Colten Balestrin and wife Kendra Balestrin, granddaughter Addisyon Balestrin and, beloved dog, Taco. His mother Connie Balestrin, brother Donnie Balestrin, His brothers and sister-in-laws Gary & Leeann Dorris, Randy & Cheryl Dorris, Dennis & Denise Brisco, Jeff Dorris, April Sidenstricker and, so many cousins, nieces and nephews, aunts & uncles to mention.

He is preceded in death by his father Don Balestrin Sr.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 17th, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary in Joplin, MO. The family invites friends out for a time of visitation prior to the service at 5:00 p.m.

Arrangements are under the direct care of Parker Mortuary in Joplin, MO.