Esther Balaton was born on February 7, 1932, and passed peacefully on May 20, 2026, in her own residence after a lengthy illness.

Esther was born in Debrecen, Hungary and moved to Budapest as a small child where she completed her schooling. Esther married Joseph Balaton in 1951. Together, they escaped the Hungarian Revolution in 1956 and, via Austria and France, arrived in Canada by boat in January of 1957 in the deep cold of winter. 

Esther and Joseph worked and resided in Saskatoon most of their lives. Esther worked as a pathology lab assistant at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon and later as a medical office receptionist for her husband. 

Esther loved her family, gardening, playing cards, knitting, crocheting, and reading.

Esther and Joseph had three children; Joseph(Audrey), Julianna(Scott), and John(Fiona); nine grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren. 

Our Mother never complained, and remained stoic throughout her illness. Her motto was "Never Give Up". Mother was beloved by all and will be sadly missed.

Martens Warman is honoured to be entrusted with Esther Balaton's care and arrangements.