Arnoldo Ballestas

Arnoldo Ballestas, 85, of Hartford, loving husband of 47 years to Rosa (Roldan) Ballestas, peacefully passed away at home on February 15, 2022. He was surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren, who adored him.

Arnoldo was born in Cartagena, Colombia, one of eleven children to the late Miguel and Maria T. (Gonzalez) Ballestas. After graduating high school, he began his career as an entrepreneur.

Arnoldo immigrated to America in the early ’70s, where he met his lovely wife, Rosa Roldan. He and Rosa were the successful owners of Rapienvio Travel in Hartford.

Arnoldo was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the life they deserved. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world, something he proudly and often mentioned. Arnoldo was a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His knowledge and guidance were the foundation of his family. His passion and integrity to those he loved were unwavering. Anyone who truly knew him knew he had such a big heart. He’d give you anything even if it weren’t his to give. His infectious smile and laugh will live on forever.

Arnoldo was an avid baseball fan, with his favorite team being the New York Mets. He loved to travel to his native country of Colombia. He enjoyed listening to music, eating a good home meal, and spending time with his family in his spare time.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of his loving wife Rosa and his thirteen children; Emilse, Arnoldo II, Martha, Maria, Jacqueline, Liliana, Patricia, Eileen, Dani, Jack, Karina, Alvaro, and Janis; as well as his adored 21 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. In addition, he leaves his eight siblings; Orlando, Marlene, Martha, Alberto, Janete, Miguel, Rita, Alcides, and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects to the Ballestas family Wednesday, February 23rd, from 5 to 7 p.m., at the D’Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Boulevard, Wethersfield.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, February 24th at 11 a.m. at St. Augustine Church, 10 Campfield Avenue, Hartford (Attendees are requested to meet directly at the church). Interment will follow the Mass at Cedar Hill Cemetery (Section 35), 453 Fairfield Avenue, Hartford.