James L. Balantic
- Sep 13, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 15, 2024
1942 - 2024
OBITUARY
Jim Balantic, a devoted husband and loving father and grandfather, died suddenly on Sept. 12 at his New Hyde Park home. He was 82.
Jim was born Aug. 9, 1942, in the Glendale section of Queens to Frank and Helen (McCaul) Balantic.
Jim attended St. Pancras School, where he served as an altar boy. He graduated from Thomas Edison High School in 1960 and enlisted in the US Army in 1961. His service was completed in 1967 as a member of the Army Reserve.
Jim married Gracemarie Deegan in 1965 and they raised their family in New Hyde Park.
Jim was a plumber by trade and spent his career with the New York City Parks Department, where he rose to serve as a Foreman of Mechanics. Long after his retirement in 1992, he continued to lend his technical skills to help family and friends with many household projects.
Music played a big role in Jim’s life. He was a member of S.P.E.B.E.S.U.S.A., a barbershop harmony organization and he performed in numerous barbershop choruses and quartets in the New York area. He also loved hot jazz; he and Grace frequented many jazz clubs and musical performances over the years. However, the music he loved the most was family singalongs – a tradition at parties, holiday gatherings, and the annual Balantic Family (and Friends) Reunion at Glenbrook Farm in Roundtop, NY.
He was a member of Our Lady of Victory Church in Floral Park and attended daily Mass.
In addition to his wife Grace, Jim is survived by two daughters, Jeannette Balantic of Floral Park, and Catherine Lembo (and her husband Larry) of Farmingdale; a sister, Lois Teetz of New Hyde Park; and five grandchildren, Finn and Eamon Cullen of Montana, and Lawrence, Christian and Emma Lembo of Farmingdale.
VISITATION
Monday, September 16
2:00 - 4:00 & 7:00 - 9:00 PM
New Hyde Park Funeral Home
506 Lakeville Road, New Hyde Park, NY
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL
Tuesday, September 17
10:30 AM
Our Lady of Victory R.C. Church
2 Floral Parkway, Floral Park, NY
INTERMENT
Calverton National Cemetery
210 Princeton Boulevard, Calverton, NY
IN LIEU OF FLOWERS
Donations may be made in Jim's name to a charity of your choice.
So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Our thoughts are with you all. Deb and Phil
Cookie - So sorry to hear about the loss of Jim. Condolences from Patricia, Jean- Pierre and Gabrielle Jacob.
So saddened to receive the news of Jim's passing so late. We spent many happy hours enjoying wonderful music together at Nawlins. Sending heartfelt sympathy. Love, Lisa
Our deepest condolences. Jim was a wonderful sweet man who will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers to the family.
Dear Grace, Lois and family,
I was so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and prayers at this very difficult time.
Love,
Richard Clouthier