Reinaldo "Big Rey, The Dancing Bear" Alvarez

He attended Jefferson High School, and his early working career included jobs at Olympia Bakery and Havana Village. Later, he worked at Carbo Distributors/Southern Wine and Spirits, where he served for 30 years, first as a delivery driver and then as a warehouse clerk. After retiring, he enjoyed gathering with his buddies at Mi Pueblo and La Teresita. He played a monumental role in caring for his mother during her final years, making it possible for her to stay at home until her passing.

He was a good man with a big heart: simple, loyal, kind, generous, and easygoing. Those who knew him well were familiar with his passion for dancing and his love for “oldies but goodies” from the ’50s and ’60s. His nickname, from his days at The Casbah and the Holiday Inn on Cypress, was “Big Rey, The Dancing Bear.” He was happiest and always at his best on the dance floor.

He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Palmira and Miguel Baluja; his grandmother, Aurora “Lola” Garcia, whom he loved dearly; and several uncles, aunts, and cousins. He is survived by his brother, Miguel Baluja Jr. (Cynthia); nephews, Miguel Baluja III (Andrea) and Julian Pichardo; niece, Reina Baluja; and grand-nieces, Arabella and Maiyah Baluja.

There will be no viewing or public burial gathering at this time, but there will be a Celebration of Life in the not-too-distant future. The time and place are pending, and the family will announce them at a later date.

Rest in Heavenly Peace, Big Rey. You will be missed by many; your family will remember and love you forever.