Richard G. Balke graduated from Texas A&M University and the Hermann Hospital School of Physical Therapy. In 1961 he moved to Amarillo and went to work for the Amarillo Cerebral Palsy Treatment Center which became Children’s Rehabilitation Center (CRC) in 1971.

For forty years Richard Balke developed, grew and provided strong leadership for CRC. He was often called “Doctor” Balke by board members and parents alike. Mr. Balke was first a children’s physical therapist and teacher; then an administrator. He was clearly the “backbone, heart and soul” of CRC. He not only provided the vision and direction for the center, but exemplified the spiritual character of unconditional love and caring by which the staff would serve these special children and their parents. He gave all of them encouragement and hope. Richard Balke was described by his long-time secretary as “The hardest working man I have ever seen.” He was totally unselfish and dedicated, a Christian man of integrity, foresight, passion and kindness.

Before his death, members of the CRC Board of Directors wanted to name the Center after him, but he would not hear of it. After his passing, there was no question about changing the name to honor his incredible legacy and CRC was renamed Richard G. Balke Children’s Rehabilitation Center.