Dr. Richard H. Balzer Jr., 68, passed away on November 18, 2014, after battling a long hard-fought illness. He was home with loving wife, family, and friends by his side. Born on December 10, 1945, in Newport News, VA, he was survived by his dedicated and caring wife Shirley Balzer, brother John, two children: Jennifer and David, five step children: Jamie, Jill, Jeff, Julie, and Jason, and 11 wonderful grandchildren.

Richard retired from Orange Park Medical Center December 2013 after over 20 years as a devoted and compassionate anesthesiologist. He was admired, respected, and loved by all who knew him. Richard not only had a true passion for his profession–he genuinely cared for each and every patient. In addition to his immense commitment as a physician, he was a longstanding faithful member of The Pinewood Presbyterian Church. Richard served as a commander in the United States Navy. Aboard the U.S.S. Iwo Jima, he was head of the surgical team as an anesthesiologist when a suicide bomber attacked the US Military. Dr. Balzer oversaw the care and triaged numerous wounded soldiers that were airlifted to the ship.