Mar Balmonte, age 67, passed away peacefully at the VA Portland Health Care System in Oregon on March 2021. He had kidney transplant surgery in November that was successful but due to complications after surgery he developed debilitating conditions that prolonged his recovery and eventually thwarted any chance of recovery. He had fought hard but now he will be able to rest and no longer be in pain. His wife, four daughters, and a son-in-law (who quickly visited) were fortunate to be with him so he was not alone in his final hours. They made sure he was comfortable until his last breath. 

He was born on September 30, 1953 in Villasis, Pangasinan, Philippines to Evangeline and Maximo. He was the fourth of eight children. His siblings are Violeta, Saturnino, Julieta, Lorenza, Carmelita, Ernesto and Myrna. He grew up in Mindanao and Pangasinan in the Philippines. He came to the US in 1973 to be with his father. He was in the US Army from January 1974-1976 through a peaceful period. During his service he was granted the Marksman medal. He lived in Sunnyvale, Mountain View, Menlo Park, then settled in San Jose, CA for a few years where he raised his children, then he moved back to Menlo Park.

He was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, uncle, nephew, cousin and grandfather.  Married his wife, Tessie, for over 44 years. Together they built a wonderful life centered on a shared love of family and friends. His priority was always his family, for whom he exemplified love, commitment, joy and presence especially with his grandchildren. His love and care were not limited to his immediate family but to his extended relatives, friends, and even friends of his children. It was shown through the amount of calls and messages that were received expressing love and gratitude for his unwavering kindness, wholehearted love and sense of humor during his final days.

Viewing April 2 from 1-5pm, Funeral April 3 at 11 am.
RSVP required: forms.gle/bhANzfBMH6SXADCF6