Donald D. "Champ" Baloga, Sr., 78, passed away on Saturday morning, June 17, 2017, in Riverstreet Manor, Wilkes-Barre. He and his wife, Joan Starzinski Baloga, were married 15 years on August 14th, 2016.

Born in Port Griffith, he was a son of the late John Baloga, who was killed in the Knox Mine Disaster in 1959 and Caroline Harenza Baloga. He attended Jenkins Township High School. Prior to his retirement, Don was an over the road truck driver for many companies which included MS Carriers, Nelson Furniture, both Kingston and Wyoming, and in the 1960's Marvel Industries, Exeter.

Prior to his illness, Don and his wife Joan enjoyed going on trips throughout the country, including a few memorable trips to Hawaii. He told many stories about the good old days playing baseball with all his buddies from Jenkins Township. Don enjoyed planting a huge vegetable garden year after year and many others benefited from his bountiful harvest. Don was an avid Phillies, Penn State Football and Eagles fan.

He was a beloved husband, father, grandpa, brother, uncle and friend. He left a lot of memories for everyone to hold dear. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Riverstreet Manor for their compassionate care.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons, Donald, Jr. and wife, Jennifer, Stokesdale, NC; John and wife, Susan, Dupont; Ronald and wife, Heather, Pittston; Michael and wife, Mary, Wyoming; grandchildren, Taylor, Carolyn, Laura, Amanda, Joshua, Luke, Matthew, Stephen, Adria, Doris, Elisabeth, Andrew, Mae and Emma; sisters, Audrey Calvey and husband, Thomas, Port Griffith and Sandra Daly and husband, James, Nanticoke; brother, John and wife, Noreen, Plains; nieces and former wife, Theresa.

He was preceded in death by his nephew, David Calvey.

A blessing service will be held on Thursday 8PM at Baloga Funeral Home, Inc. 1201 Main Street Pittston (Port Griffith), with Fr. Leo McKernan, officiating.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects Thursday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM

A private interment will be held in Wyoming Cemetery.