It is with deep love and gratitude for a life well-lived that we share in the passing of Mike Balich, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and man of unwavering faith. Born in Los Angeles, CA, he found his true home in San Diego, where he and his beloved wife, Margie, built a life together. From the moment he met Margie, he knew she was the one and for the better part of six decades, she was his everything—his greatest love, his partner in all things, the heart of the life they built together.

An architect by trade and an educator by calling, he studied at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where his admiration for Frank Lloyd Wright blossomed. After opening his practice, he found his true passion in teaching, sharing his knowledge of drafting and the beauty of design with students for more than 30 years. He was a teacher, not just by profession, but by nature, eager to guide and inspire all around him.

Above all, he was a man of God, his faith unshakable and ever-present in all he did. When he and Margie moved to San Diego, they found their spiritual home in a charismatic renewal group that would later become City of the Lord. This community became the foundation of his faith, providing him with lifelong friendships, fellowship, and a sense of family that never wavered. He welcomed everyone with a warm smile, an open heart, and a kindness that made even strangers feel like old friends.

Perhaps his greatest testament to a life of selflessness was the choice he and Margie made to open their hearts and home to three children, Nick, Matt, and Dorothy, through adoption, giving them the love and family they otherwise may never have known. His legacy is one of kindness, faith, and devotion, and it lives on in every life he touched—from the students he mentored, the family he cherished, and the countless individuals lucky enough to be welcomed into his generous heart. To know him was to be embraced by his warmth, and that warmth will continue to shine in all who carry his love forward.

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