Lawrence MA- Jose Balbuena, 61, died Tuesday, August 05, 2008 at the Cartias Holy Family Hospital in Methuen surrounded by his loving family. Born in the Dominican Republic to Manuel and Maria (Fernandez), Jose moved to the United states in 1982.
Jose was very active and well known in the Lawrence community. He worked part time for UPS and owned and operated Nobel Bookstore in Lawrence where he hosted many cultural events (“Tertulias”). He was very involved in politics and helped in other peoples campaigns. He later ran for School Committee himself. He was an avid Domino player and was proud of participating in several competitions. Jose also loved to dance.
Jose leaves his wife of 38 years, Milagros A. Rodriguez de Balbuena, six children, Niurka Aybar and her husband Richard, Jenny Balbuena Davilla and her husband William, Jose R. and his wife Jennifer Lucciano Balbuena, Lariza Balbuena and her husband Eduard Heredia, Jose A. Balbuena and his wife Myhozotys, and Alex Balbuena. He also leaves behind his six siblings, Jose, Marcenlina, Marielena, Leonardo, Antonio and Celeste Lourdes and his five beloved grandchildren, Javier, Andrew, Nicholas, Ajani, and Arianna.
ARRANGEMENTS: Family and friends may call on Thursday, August 7, 2008 from 3-5 and 7-9 PM at Kenneth H. Pollard Funeral Home 233 Lawrence St. Methuen, MA. A Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 8, 2008 at 12 pm at The Grace Episcopal Church in Lawrence and burial will follow at the Bellevue Cemetery.