Joseph Russell Balzano

Joseph R. Balzano, age 77, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2024. He was born August 29, 1947 to Doris Colwell Balzano and James V. Balzano in Manhattan, New York.

When Joe was a teenager he and his family moved to Baltimore, Maryland where he would meet his wife, Jackie. He served as a United States Marine, 1964 – 1968, serving two-tours of duty in Vietnam. Joes was a Baltimore City Policeman. Jackie and Joe were married for 23 years and together for 31 years. The two eventually settled in DeLand, Florida.

Joe was a truly remarkable man – proud, honorable, kind, and deeply considerate of others. He had a gentle and private nature, always exuding warmth and friendliness. His unwavering commitment to his family and the values enshrined in the U.S. Constitution reflected the depth of his character. Joe believed in fairness, balanced perspectives, and held a strong faith in God, which guided him in loving and cherishing his wife and family. His loyalty to family, friends, and business associates was evident in everything he did, and he approached all aspects of life with a thoughtful plan.

Joe found great joy in nurturing beautiful flowers and plants around their home in Baltimore, creating a peaceful sanctuary. His love extended to his cats and all animals. He delighted in bowling, cycling through the community, and cheering for his favorite football teams. True crime shows, AMA, and boxing captured his interest, and he found solace in the sunshine and at the beach. Dining out was a joy for him, especially when it involved good food and cherished moments with loved ones. He savored his morning coffee, lost himself in good books, and enjoyed a dry martini before he became ill. Beyond his domestic talents as an exceptional cook, Joe excelled in trivia and had a remarkable breadth of knowledge.

Throughout his battle with cancer, Joe displayed an inspiring strength and resilience. Just two days after his chemotherapy treatment, he and Jackie courageously completed the 5K ME STRONG in DeLand, Florida in February 2024 without stopping. This achievement brought him immense pride as he realized he had met his goal. Joe, as you find peace from your pain, know that you are deeply missed and forever loved. You are home now.

Joe is survived by his wife Jackie; sons Mike (Patty), John (Jenny), Ralph (Susan); sisters Donna Egley and Harriett Blakley; grandchildren Zachery, Erin, Joshua, Dominic, Cooper, Nicholas, and Ella; great-grandchild Ashton; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to “Tunnel to Towers”.