Alot of people knew him as a military veteran, a Free Mason, a traveler. I knew him simply as Papa, my grandpa. It was a huge honor to have been one of his grandchildren, especially being his very first one. 

I remember one day in high school where I had to bring an elder family member for a sociology assignment. My parents weren't able to because of errands, so I brought Papa along. My friend Jade asked me who I brought and I told her my grandpa. 

Her and Papa began chatting in Tagalog for a little bit. Afterwards Jade comes up to me and says "I really dig your Lolo's outfit. He's really got some style". Papa happened to be wearing his trademark denim jacket and jeans that time.  I laughed and said "yup, that's him alright". 

I'll never forget the times we watched football and basketball together. The times we traveled. The gifts from other travels he would give us. Stories from his Air Force days. The life lessons he taught me as I was growing up. Papa's no longer here on Earth, but I know he's watching over our family, and he also lives on in our hearts. 

Love you and miss you, Papa! 


Tito Tony was like my other dad. My dad and Tito Tony were biologically first cousins, but were closer to one another like brothers. They were the best of friends.

My sister, Des and I grew up with the Balat cousins, Annalou, Andretti and Jenner. They would always tease us because we were the “double L” Ballat sisters, lol. I remember always enjoying my trips to San Diego growing up as a child. We would always visit every weekend. I remember the house in National City, that was our second home. I remember that house being so huge as a child. Always had a fun time and great memories there. The club house, sleep overs, the vacant lot, Sunday swap meets riding in the big blue van, family parties with always - lots of food!

We had so many wonderful memories growing up with Tito Tony. He, just like my dad always valued family, and were GREAT family men and role models. Tito Tony made sure to continue the importance of family and he built this AMAZING tree house at their Duffy Way home. It was a tree house that invited the young, old, just new to the world and furry family members to be together and share milestones such as weddings, baby showers, birthdays, graduations… Those memories at the tree house are always the best and will always live on. 

Thank you Tito Tony for sharing those wonderful memories with us and for leaving a legacy that valued family and love. You will be dearly missed, but you have left us with so much more. Thank you… I will always remember your constant laughter and sarcastic “Bal(l)at” sense of humor. 

May you rest in peace, we love you very much.

SueAnn, Clint and Alyssa 

Uncle Tony was an amazing man.  He was a wise and gentle soul with the kindest of words and sincerest of smiles.  Growing up next door to my cousins I thought their dad was the coolest and most creative.  From wooden rubber band guns to renovating their van (I heard it even had a toilet!), he made the most incredible crafts.  Uncle Tony was always there for his family...and not just his immediate family.  He always asked how my family and I were doing and was tender with his words of praise and encouragement.  I have so many fond memories of uncle.   Any time I pick up a tool belt I’ll remember uncle Tony for his kindness, surprising humor, and incredible handiwork.  Lots of love from the Gavino and Lee family for uncle and the whole Balat family. 

OBITUARY

Antonio Dequiroz Balat

5 April, 1946 – 2 April, 2019

Glen Abbey Memorial Park & Mortuary

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services