Celeste passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 6, 2011 at home with her family at her side. She was born January 11, 1951. Survived by her husband, Michael L. Bristle; her parents, Joseph and Mary “Red” (Ladd) Balogh of Alexis, NC; daughters, Noëlle Niedermeier and Tara Balogh-Niedermeier; a granddaughter, Jeanine Cieply of Chelsea; her sister Connee Roeser and brother-in-law, Randy Roeser; nephews, Ryan and Ronnee Roeser of Cape Coral, FL.
This life has been packed with travel, fun, and joy. I don't think I could have fit much more in. Of course there has been sorrow and t
ragedy, but the good far outweighed the bad. Without my friends and family, I could not have gotten through the travail. They managed to make larger parts of my struggle pleasant. I'd like to thank each and every one of you. You know who you are.
My favorite things of course were my children and grandchild. My family and friends were next. I loved being with them. I loved reading, no exaggeration; I believe I've read over a million books. Gardening was always a favorite, I loved to watch things grow. I kept an organic vegetable garden and an abundance of flowers. Travel was another joy of mine. When I met Mike, he didn't travel, he soon bought suitcases.
Some of my favorite memories reside at the family cottage on the lake near Saugatuck, MI, where we spent our summers. Even after we sold it, I found myself still going back to see it every year.
I graduated from the University of Michigan with studies in law, history, and communications. I held a few jobs that weren't quite right for me. Then I found Maya Place ( a Native American gallery) and loved it for fourteen years. I then joined the bank, actually three banks as I progressed. I started as a teller and was promoted to supervisor after three months and by nine months became a manager. I eventually retired as an Executive Sr. Vice President from United Bank and Trust.
I was a consummate volunteer and loved it. When I got sick, I had to drop off of four boards. Some of the charities were Ele's Place, United Way, Hospice for Michigan, Alzheimer's, Rotary Club, and more.
What I learned about myself is that I am a hard worker and I am capable of any job, but after work, I am a hard player. I need to have a balance in my life.
I will miss you all so much! I will be waiting for you on the other side. Have fun for me. I love you all!
A celebration of Celeste’s life was held at the UAW Hall 2795 Chelsea-Manchester Road on Saturday, November 12 starting at 3 pm, a dinner followed. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a college fund for her grandchildren. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.
Click here to view or sign Celeste's online guestbook