Sister Claudine Balio, age 81, of Rice Lake, WI, died Saturday, July 19, 2025 at her home.

Claudine was born on May 20, 1944 to John Paul and Elsie (DeMure) Balio. Early on in her life, Claudine was called to enter the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science from Metropolitan School of Business in Chicago, IL and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from DePaul University in Chicago, IL.

Sister Claudine knew early on that her calling to Christ was to work with children as a teacher, mentor and leader. She taught at Lourdes High School, Mt. Carmel in Chicago and Holy Cross in South Bend, Indiana and then taught middle school religion, computer science, English at St. Joseph Catholic School in Rice Lake, WI 1992-to the present, and lead the staff as Principal of the school. Sister Claudine had over 53 years in Education.

Sister Claudine was a voracious reader. She loved all types and topics from religious history to biblical verses, contemporary novels and light hearted stories. Her passion for reading was a primary focus as she inspired her students to pursue a host of religious and personal topics. She often shared the joy students’ embraced as their literary interest expanded. She was also a die-hard Cubs and Bears fan. She was an excellent cook, specializing in Italian cuisine.

Sister Claudine loved to fish and spend time training and loving her beloved dogs. Heart Island in Rice Lake was a vision that Sister Claudine and Sister Jeanne Conzemius dreamed about, pursued and ultimately brought to fruition over 30 years ago. Working with community leaders in both Rice Lake and with the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Third Order of St. Francis, Benjamin’s House was born, ultimately serving the much-needed resources for Barron County.

She is survived by Sister Jeanne Conzemius and the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11AM Monday, July 28, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rice Lake, Bishop James Powers and Father Adam Laski concelebrating, with interment in St. Joseph Cemetery in Rice Lake.

Visitation will be held from 4-7PM Sunday at Appleyard’s Home for Funerals in Rice Lake and for one hour prior to the funeral service at the church on Monday. In lieu of flowers, memorials would be appreciated to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rice Lake would be greatly appreciated.

Last Update: Jul 23, 2025 7:10 am CDT