In our lives, a select few individuals leave an indelible mark, shaping who we become and how we view the world. For many, this role is filled by a mentor, a friend, or a family member—someone whose presence makes life more meaningful and whose loss leaves a void that no one else can fill. For me, that person was my uncle, Ekrem Balci. His story is not just one of personal achievement but of resilience, kindness, and inspiration, a life led with passion and dedication.
Ekrem Balci was born in the small neighborhood of Fidanlik, nestled in the Sürmene district of Trabzon, Türkiye. Life there was simple yet filled with challenges. Growing up in the 1950s and 60s, he faced a world where resources were scarce, and formal education was a rare privilege. Despite these obstacles, he showed an extraordinary determination to learn, often studying with minimal materials. My uncle would share stories from his childhood—accounts that captivated me as a child. He described village life and told stories of our ancestors, each one filled with laughter, hardship, and endurance. These formative years shaped his resilience and deepened his appreciation for family and education, qualities he carried throughout his life.
At school, he was known for his exceptional memorization skills. While many students struggled to master subjects like math without tutors or resources, my uncle found ways to overcome these challenges. He tackled limits, derivatives, and integrals—entire calculus concepts—on his own, turning a perceived weakness into a strength by memorizing each question’s answer. His tenacity and love for learning laid the groundwork for a lifetime of intellectual curiosity, one that he would later pass on to me.
One of the greatest gifts my uncle gave me was my love for reading. His home was like a treasure trove, filled with books on every imaginable topic. I would spend hours pouring over his collection, each book a window into new worlds and ideas. It was through him that I learned the power of words, the magic of stories, and the value of lifelong learning. His influence was so profound that, to this day, I credit him with making me the avid reader I am.
In the early 1980s, Ekrem took a decisive step into public service by joining the police force. From the outset, he approached his role with an unwavering commitment to justice and public safety. His career spanned over four decades, during which he steadily rose through the ranks, earning respect from colleagues and community members alike. Starting as a Police Officer, he climbed through positions of increasing responsibility: Corporal, Sergeant, Deputy Inspector, Inspector, Chief Inspector, Superintendent, and eventually Chief of Police.
Each rank represented not just a title but a chapter in his life—a chapter filled with the dedication, sacrifices, and challenges that come with protecting the community. He served in various cities, each one bearing the marks of his leadership and compassion. Whether he was solving a complex case or mentoring younger officers, he left an impression that lasted long after he moved on.
My uncle was not only a model of integrity in his professional life but also a source of strength and wisdom in his personal relationships. I remember his visits to our home vividly. When he arrived, there was always a sense of joy and anticipation. Even after long days at work, he would sit with me, sharing stories, offering advice, and just listening—an invaluable gift in itself. His voice and words echo in my mind to this day, as though he were still beside me, guiding me through life’s challenges.
Ekrem’s journey was also marked by his deep love for his family. I remember his wedding day, an event that brought our family together and filled us with joy. Even as a young child, I could sense the importance of the occasion. In the years that followed, he became a devoted husband and father, a role he approached with the same dedication that defined his professional life. His presence created a sense of stability and love that extended to everyone around him.
In my last memories of him, I see the man who made me who I am today. His stories, his wisdom, and his example continue to shape me. He was a true mentor and role model, not just in his accomplishments but in the way he treated people—with kindness, respect, and a sense of honor that was uniquely his own.
Today, as I write these words, I feel his absence deeply. Losing him has left a void that nothing can fill, yet I find solace in the countless memories he left behind. He was not just an uncle; he was a beacon of strength, an embodiment of kindness, and a wellspring of knowledge.
Esra Sahin