1934
2014
Michael J. Balbach, 79, passed away Thursday 13 March 2014 at home in Richmond, VA.
Born 7 October 1934 in Newark, N.J., he was raised in Down Neck Newark. Mickey attended
St. Benedict's Grammar School and East Side High School where he played baseball and was
co-captain of the swim team. He served in the Korean Conflict as a corporal in the US Army.
A tool and die maker by trade, he moved to New Providence, NJ in 1960 where,
among other projects, he worked on parts for the US Space Program for Bell Labs.
Foreswearing the snow and in search of the perfect dive spot, on January 1st 1968 he and his
family moved to St. Croix, US Virgin Islands. Mickey managed a watch making company,
then a pantyhose manufacturing plant enabling him to tell people he "went from watches to
crotches". He then managed Gannett Corp. hardware store and construction company for
many years, as well as owning the Suds n Duds laundry.
Mickey was an enthusiastic diver and sailor, helming the St. Croix Dive Club and serving as
Commodore of the St. Croix Yacht Club. He holds the dubious distinction of taking two days
to complete the around the island race- completed in hours by most other sailors! He also was
a gifted tenor and actor, performing in numerous productions at Island Center, Botanical
Gardens, and other theaters on St. Croix. Later, when he moved to Hartwell, Ga to manage the
Hartwell Training Center factory, he also performed at the Hartwell Playhouse. Retiring to
Zephyrhills, FL, he wrote as well as performed in numerous productions at the Southport
Springs Clubhouse.
He was predeceased by his beloved son Mark John. In Richmond he leaves behind his wife
of 59 years, Mary Ann, daughter Mary Ann, her husband Jeff Markunas and their
children Christopher (Morgan Montgomery) , Katie, and Nicholas ; In NJ, son
Michael (Joyce) and his children Jennifer, Louie, Mark , and in NC, Michael.
There will be no services, but any time you get a chance to catch a few rays of
sunshine, enjoy the warmth, and be sure to think of Mickey quoting his favorite
saying, "It's not easy being me!"
Arrangements under the direction of Woody Funeral Home Huguenot Chapel, Midlothian, VA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
March 9, 2019
Friend
Skip Booth
Mike was a great guy who was always fun to be around. We both worked for the same owners! But different companies on the Island of St Croix. Enjoyed the time I spent around Mike! Only wish that it would have been more. I miss St Croix, Gannett hardware, Vimark and Sud's & Dud's. Just wish That I could turn back time and know what I know now. But don't we all.
December 5, 2014
skip booth
It's been a long time ago! But I will always remember your friendly smile. St Croix was a great place to meet people like you. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers my friend.
March 24, 2014
We miss you Mickey and know that you are singing with the angels in heaven. We hope you found that perfect dive spot that you were looking for! Southport Springs is not the same without you and MaryAnn.
March 17, 2014
elizabeth kmetz
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Brother and liz kmetz
March 16, 2014
Thinking of you with sorrow. Our deepest sympathy. Psalm 62:7, 8 have faith in God's promises
March 14, 2014
Bud Hazelgrove, GM
Please accept Woody staff condolences for your loss. You can depend on us to assist you on this journey and we will strive for your complete satisfaction while your loved one is in our care. We believe you deserve nothing less. For these difficult days, we will be honored to have you consider our home and family a part of yours.
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