Steve Balcom

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Steven Howard Balcom, age 71, of Joplin, Missouri (formerly of Lamar, Missouri), passed away March 18, 2026, at his home.

Steve was born March 27, 1954, in Kansas City, Missouri, to James Otto Balcom and Juanita (Riggs) Balcom. On April 22, 1978, he married Karen Suzanne Schwartz in Belton, Missouri.

Steve worked as a lab manager for Precision Aero Service. He was a dedicated professional who took great pride in his work.

While living in Lamar, Steve and his wife, Karen, were active members of First Christian Church, where faith played an important role in his life. During his time there, he served as a deacon, was a member of the Missions Board, and played bass guitar in the worship band. He also organized Compassion Sunday through Compassion International, a ministry he and Karen supported faithfully since the 1980s.

Steve enjoyed reading, gardening, and tinkering with automobiles. Above all, he was a devoted family man who cherished time spent with his loved ones.

Survivors include his wife, Karen; one son, Nathan Balcom and wife, Lindsay; one daughter, Jessica Boyd and husband, Josh; four grandchildren, Emma, Jesse, Harry, and Frankie; and one sister, Cindy Prowell.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Ronnie Balcom, Chuck Balcom, Jon Balcom, and Danny Balcom; and one brother-in-law, Richard Prowell.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at St. James Cemetery, north of Milford, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested and may be made payable to First Christian Church Mission Fund, in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

Condolences may be shared at www.dfhlamar.com