I was saddened to hear of  Cathy’s passing. I met her in the 1950s while taking dance classes  taught be her mother, Laverne Balk. We 
eventually became dance partners and performed for several years in  many local venues in Stockton CA.
The last time I saw her was at the Renaissance Fair in Marin County where she was  belly dancing.  I have wonderful memories of our performances.
My thoughts go out to her family.
Dolph Gotelli

Seems almost counter intuitive to leave a message so late, yet I was going through some old paperwork in regards to an instructional Middle Eastern Dance exercise video I produced at the beginning of this century (gosh, even that seems odd to say), that Farideh (Cathryn) had counselled me on (and I don’t mind telling that she was resoundingly against at the outset ;). I was recalling the enchanted evenings of driving her home to that gorgeous apartment where we drank wine and danced - she always made me feel so good about movement - so I thought that I would look her up. I was very sad to see this and will cherish my memories. She was a lady for certain, and one heck of a gal as well ;) So honoured to have shared time with her - xo

Aww Cathryn, such fond memories of our Sunday teas together with Eialena and Angela.  My first Flamenco class was with you. I will never forget the stories, the wine, the tea and Gieger. I was calling to check on you and found out today it’s too late. Your beauty will soar and forever Inspire Dear Teacher. May you have eternal peace. 

   I don't know exactly when it began and I don't know why it ended so soon but I do know that Cathryn was always there for me.  
She was my inspiration, teacher, mentor and then a very close and supportive friend. 
I have learned so much from her artistically and spiritually.  She was so inspiring, so passionate and she loved deeply. 
 She was kind and generous, she loved people, animals and flowers, she is one who should always be honored and remembered. 
   Tears fall from my eyes as I write these words, I will always love you Cathryn. 


Many  years gone by in uncertainty,  until I nearly found you again. Now it is late, too late.
Remember the day we met in Rome in the sixties.  It rained,  and we were seeking shelter in Pantheon.
The short time  we spent together is always on my mind and has special place in my heart,  dear Cathryn.

From that first dance class I took from you, I knew I had found my teacher because your soulfulness was powerful and you helped me connect my soul with that same magic source and fire that you carried with you.  I caught fire for the dance because of you, dear beautiful, enchanting lady. You became a beloved member of my own family and were always there for me.  You stood up unabashedly for what was right and true artistically.  There will never be another like you.  I will miss you greatly dear Cata. 

My beautiful teacher and mentor. I learner so much from her!! Her classes were always at least 3 hrs as we started with tea in her Turkish glasses and chatted in the dining room, dance for ages then hung out for too long afterward. 
Soooo many stories! <3
Dance off into eternity, Farideh! xoxoxo. 
The photo is her birthday lunch last year. 

Some flamencas dance near the fire.  Some flamencas dance around the fire.  Cathryn danced in the fire, totally  duende.  A thorough teacher and a great lady and an inspiration to mindfulness, living in the moment.

OBITUARY

Cathryn L Balk

April 11, 1944 – October 4, 2018

First Memorial Funeral Services & Garden of Memories

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