Northfield, MA – It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Doris Clarke (Sloat) Balk, who left this world peacefully at home on June 19, 2026, at the age of 95. Born on September 25, 1930, in Greenwich, Connecticut, Doris was the beloved daughter of Leon and Margaret Sloat, who predeceased her. Doris was also preceded in death by her cherished husband, Frederick Balk, her firstborn son, Stephen, and her twin brother, Clifford Sloat. She was a breast cancer survivor from 1977.
Doris’s (she preferred Dot) journey through life was marked by unwavering dedication, love, and service to her family and community. She leaves behind a legacy that will forever be treasured by her surviving children: Barbara (Wayne), Stewart (Linda), Pamela, Daniel (Sharon), and David (Yasmin). Her loving spirit will continue to shine through her grandchildren, Hannah, Jacob, Kimberly, Colleen, Jessica, Dwight, and Sophie, as well as her great-grandchildren, Aidan, Theodore, Lincoln, Sadie, and Ivy. Dot is also survived by her three nieces, Beverly, Robin, and Cynthia, along with their families, many cousins, and her dear friend, Mildred, affectionately known as Toby, Norton.
Dot’s life was a tapestry of rich experiences and accomplishments. She graduated from Stamford High School and went on to work at her father’s gas station, Bartlett Tree Company, Peabody Engineering, American Cyanamid, and later as a van driver for NMH. Her commitment to community service was evident through her roles on the Northfield Planning Board, as a Registrar of Voters, Tax Assessor, Northfield Water District commissioner and held office with the Western Mass Water Works Association that she helped establish. Dot was also a dedicated member/office holder of the Northfield Garden Club, Fortnightly Women’s Club, Northfield Grange, Historical Society and Historical Commission, and the Northfield Tercentenary Celebration Committee. While still in Stamford, CT she was a member of the National Rifle Association. Her commitment to nurturing the minds and spirits of young people was shown through her leadership roles in the Girl Scouts and 4H. She also taught riding at Bull’s Eye Riding Stable and nature studies at Northfield Mountain Project.
In her personal life, Dot found joy and solace in her artistic endeavors. Her talent was expressed through beautiful paintings, pen and ink drawings, and charcoal still lifes, which captured the essence of her creative spirit. She kept family history records as well as detailed farm records for Balky Farm. Her home was a testament to her love of holiday decorating, and her flower gardens were a vibrant reflection of her nurturing touch.
Dot’s love for horses was a lifelong passion, and she was a proud member/officer of the Stamford Horsemen Association and the Boot & Spur Riding Club. She directed, promoted horse shows and did full billboards for advertisements of the same. A notable highlight was being the first female to ride a steer in a rodeo. She loved every moment spent riding with family and friends, creating memories that will be cherished forever.
More than anything, Dot was a dedicated mother, a loving and caring individual who embodied support, warmth, and generosity. Her honesty, hard work, and loyalty made her a true friend to many, and her presence will be deeply missed.
A service to celebrate Dot’s extraordinary life will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Trinitarian Congregational Church on Main Street, Northfield, MA. Burial will follow at Pentecost Cemetery. Calling hours will be at Kidder Funeral Home Friday, July 17, from 5pm to 7pm. Donations in Dot’s memory may be made to Pioneer Valley Hospice or the Northfield EMS, Fire, and Police Departments.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Northfield EMS, Bay State Franklin Medical Center, Bay State Springfield, Pioneer Valley Hospice, TRIAD and Kidder Funeral Home for their compassionate care during Dot’s illness and final days.
As we say goodbye to Dot, we remember the warmth of her smile, the strength of her character, and the depth of her love. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her. She leaves this world a better place, having touched the lives of so many with her kindness and grace.
Kidder Funeral Home, 1 Parker Ave., Northfield, MA is assisting the family with arrangements.
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