ONEONTA – Wayne J. Balnis, Sr., 76, passed away at home unexpectedly on October 4, 2016.

He was born January 22, 1940 in Oneonta, the son of Joseph and Florence (Dutcher) Balnis.

Wayne married Patricia A. "Patsy" Weitzel on October 29, 1960 in Oneonta. She predeceased him on February 6, 2011.

Wayne was employed by the City of Oneonta DPW for 34 years, working his way to becoming a Working Supervisor.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, visiting casinos, listening to his granddaughter, Caryn sing and sitting on his front porch as "Mayor of Gilbert Street"

He is survived by his children, Wayne Jr. and Carla Balnis of Oneonta, Sherry and Brian Pidgeon of Oneonta and Laurie and Stephen Page of Maryland; grandchildren, Joseph and Caryn Balnis; sister, Barbara and Dewey Rogers; brother-in-law, Sam and Joyce Weitzel; sister-in-law, Mary and Dan Tranvaag; several nieces & nephews; special friends, Rick and Mary; and his beloved dog, BV.

He was predeceased by his parents.

Calling hours will be from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, October 7, 2016 at the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St., Oneonta.

A memorial service will be 11 a.m., Saturday, October 8, 2016 at the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home with the Rev. Teressa Sivers, officiating.

Online condolences may be sent to, www.lhpfuneralhome.com