Justin Akif Balantekin

Justin Akif Balantekin, age 36, passed away after a long illness on August 30, 2025 at Unity Point Meriter hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. He was born on July 29, 1989 in Madison, the son of A. Baha Balantekin and Barbara A. Lewis.

He attended Madison West High School and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, with a degree in Applied Math, Engineering and Physics. He enjoyed working as a Teaching Specialist in the Physics Department at UW-Madison and was frequently praised as one of the best in the department. He had a gift for understanding what each student needed to help understand difficult subjects.

Justin loved all animals, especially cats and dogs, and was happy to take care of neighbors' pets. He also loved children, especially playing with his nieces and tutoring neighborhood children in math and science.

He was frequently seen wearing his trademark penguin hat and enjoyed being Uncle Penguin to his nieces.

He is survived by his parents, twin brother Michael, sister Katie (Kevin Corrigan), three nieces, and several cousins, aunts and uncles.

Funeral arrangements are private; a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations in his memory may be made to the Dane County Humane Society or the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434