Jenaro Morris Balderrama

Jenaro Morris "Hank' Balderrama             Auburn (Bay City), Michigan
Mr.Balderrama passed away peacefully early Saturday, August 2, 2014 at Close to Home Adult Foster Care surrounded by family. Age 89 years. The son of the late Fidencio and Marcela (Morales) Balderrama was born September 19, 1924 in Bigfoot, Texas. He retired from General Motors.Mr. Balderrama served in the U.S. Army during W.W.II with the 36th Armored Infantry Regiment attached to the 3rd Armored Division. He was a Prisoner Of War and was severely wounded in action September 17, 1944 in Germany. He was awarded the Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation and was an active candidate for the French Legion Of Honor. Mr. Balderrama was a past D.A.V Commander for the Bay County chapter. He survived by his wife the former Helen Angeline Rytlewski on July 17, 1945, two children; Inez (Ben) Fisher, Joseph ( Crystal) Balderrama, nine grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren, his brothers; Fred (Judy), Jerry ( Kathy), Bobby (Amy), his sisters; Josie Leach and Angie, many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by one son; Raymond "Sonny" Balderrama, his grandson; Tracy Avila, one brother; Joseph, two sisters; Sally and Jenny.He enjoyed bowling, listening to music, playing his guitar and playing cards.The family wishes to express their appreciation to the entire staff at Close To Home Care and also to Southern Care Hospice for the tremendous care they provided to Mr. Balderrama. Funeral Services will take place Tuesday, August 5, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. Officiating will be Rev. David Hakes with entombment in St. Stanislaus Kostka Mausoleum followed by Military Honor's conducted by the Bay County Veterans Council. The family will be present at the funeral home on Monday to received family and friends from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m. and on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services. A Prayer Service will be conducted on Monday evening at 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider donations to the Bay County Veterans Council.