John Scott Balmforth

John Scott Balmforth, aged 58, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025, under the loving care of his family and hospice. John was born on September 16, 1966, in Detroit, MI, the son of Donald and Diana Balmforth. He was a life-long resident of Livonia, MI and was a 1984 graduate of Detroit Catholic Central High School.

John was preceded in death by his dad on January 1, 2016, his mom on December 18, 2022, and his sister Dawn on October 31, 2021.

Those cherishing John’s memory includes his daughter Emily (Lex) and son Scott, brothers Philip (Phyllis Anne), and Michael (Helen), as well as seven nieces and nephews, Christopher, Ben, Alex, Philip Jr., Isabel, Jack, Matthew, and one great-nephew, Thomas, plus countless aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

John was a big outdoor enthusiast, with some of his biggest passions including hunting, fishing, working on cars, boating, snowmobiles and dirt bikes. Although Multiple Sclerosis slowed him down, it did not stop his enthusiasm for the outdoors and continued to hunt and fish until no longer able to physically do so. He was also a big Detroit sports fan. He faithfully followed the Lions, Red Wings and Michigan football and would love to talk about “his” teams with anyone who would listen.

The following services have been scheduled:

A visitation for John will be held Thursday, April 24 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Harry J Will Funeral Home, 37000 W. Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152. A prayer service will be said in his honor at 7:00pm allowing the opportunity for all of us to share our memories of John. He will lie in state at 10:30am on Friday, April 25 at St. Edith Catholic Church, 15089 Newburgh Rd, Livonia, MI 48154 with a Funeral Mass at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, or if you simply wish to honor John, please donate to The National Multiple Sclerosis Society or The Michigan Humane Society in his name.