Kendal Adam Balding, 53

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Kendal Adam Balding, 53, of Teutopolis, IL, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Kendal was born on July 6, 1972, in Olney, IL to the late Donavan and Sharon Balding. He was a member of Altamont Christian Church, where he loved serving. He was also a member of the Hickory Grove Great Banquet serving on various teams, including Prison Ministry. He graduated from Western Illinois University with a Degree in Law Enforcement. He was employed by the Lake Sara Water Authority Effingham, IL and also the Effingham County Sheriff’s Department.

Kendal was a member of the Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club. He was later employed as an Altamont City Police Officer as well as the Altamont High School Resource Officer, where he had a positive impact on many students. Kendal also served as Altamont Chief of Police. Kendal was a police officer at heart for a lifetime.

Most recently, Kendal was an Assistant Deputy Grand Master Southern Area of the Grand Lodge of Illinois where he was devoted to Masonry. Kendal held many offices throughout his career including District Deputy Worshipful Master of the Grand Lodge as well as Secretary of the Lodge for many years. He also was on the Coins for Children Committee and involved on the Scholarship Committee. Kendal was also Past President and Secretary of the Hearts Shrine Club. He was highly involved in many aspects.

Kendal loved serving his Church and community, motorcycle riding, fishing, golfing, target practice and spending time with family and friends. He always had a smile on his face and brought joy to everyone he knew.

Kendal is survived by his mother, Sharon Smith (Walter) of Teutopolis, IL; brother, Jeff Balding (Kun) of Franklin, TN; brother, Scott Balding (Monica) of Allendale, IL; niece, Ashley Balding; nephews, Jonathan Balding (Angela), Seth Balding (Amber), and Stuart Balding (Tameka); great-nieces, Ava and Iris; and great-nephew, Ben. He was preceded in death by his father, Donavon David Balding.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at Altamont Christian Church, with Masonic Rites at 7:00 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery in Altamont. Services are in the care of Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham, IL.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, donations may be made to the Altamont Masonic Lodge #533.