Aurora DeVera Balizado

Aurora was married to the love of her life, Dr. Alfredo Balizado, MD, for 40 years. Aurora and Alfredo were blessed with five children (Arleigh, Mary Ann [Larry], Alfred, Aurora [Sean], and Aileen) and nine grandchildren (Rebecca [Alden], James, Sarah, John, Catherine, Alexander [Jessica], Evan, Michael, and Joseph).

Growing up in a large, close-knit family from Naga City, Philippines, Aurora’s childhood was filled with music and hearty laughter. Aurora was the fourth of twelve children: Angela Pinlac (deceased), [Adolfo]; Ernesto De Vera (deceased), [Matilda]; Gloria Concepcion (deceased), [Jesus (deceased)]; Nora Timpauer [Alberto]; Arturo De Vera [Maria Pilar]; Jesusa LaRosa [James]; Fausto, Jr. De Vera [Catherine]; Romulo De Vera [Amalia]; Manuel De Vera [Nerissa]; Maria Teresa De Vera [Jose Villaneueva]; Danny De Vera [Lourdes].

Aurora attended Zamboanga Hospital School of Nursing where she graduated as a registered nurse in May, 1959. She met Alfredo while working at the Infante Clinic in Isabela de Basilan.

Alfredo and Aurora were married on January 1, 1960. They operated a successful medical clinic in Lamitan, Philippines, until 1970. Ever the devoted parents, Alfredo and Aurora decided to move their family to the United States to seek a better life for their children.

Upon immigrating to the United States, Alfredo, Aurora, and their five children settled in Tempe, Arizona, where they soon established ties to their new home. Alfredo and Aurora were active members in the Arizona Philippine Physicians Association and the Lions Club where they volunteered many of their hours serving others.

Aurora was a devout Roman Catholic and an active member of the Mount Carmel Catholic Community. She loved attending daily mass, praying the rosary, and providing support to all.

When she was not doting on her children and grandchildren, Aurora enjoyed writing poetry, playing mahjong, and learning how to play the piano at the age of 80. Her piano rendition of “Happy Birthday” will be greatly missed! Aurora was an avid sports fan who enjoyed watching her beloved Phoenix Suns, win or lose.

Aurora will live on in the hearts and memories of all who had the privilege of meeting her. She will always be remembered as a strong Catholic woman who lived her faith. She was a dedicated mother and grandmother (Lola) who was devoted to her family. She treated everyone with kindness and generosity. Above all, Aurora was a beautiful Child of God.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes a donation to be made to The Mayo Clinic Diabetes Research. Donations in the memory of Aurora Balizado can be made through the appropriate link at mayoclinic.org or via the following address: The Mayo Clinic, Department of Development, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905.