Rudy N. Balagat

Rudy Nick Balagat, left us peacefully after fighting a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease and went to dance in the streets of heaven where he joined many beloved family members and friends on Memorial Day, May 27, 2024.

He was born on November 8, 1941 in Phoenix, Arizona to the late, Nick Balagat and Frances Balagat (Candeleria).  He attended Phoenix Union High School and not long after met his wife Gloria (Santa Maria) at the Riverside Park Ballroom where one dance turned into a lifetime.  

In 1966, he was drafted to the United States Army, where he proudly served his Country in Vietnam until returning home on August 28, 1968.  Rudy was missing in action for a period of time and earned the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars.

Once home, he started a family and returned to Rudolph Chevrolet (later, Lou Grubb Chevrolet), where he worked for over 35 years in the parts department, body shop, truck shop and later, the service drive where he served as a Service Consultant until his retirement.  Rudy excelled as a Service Consultant due to his love of people and personal charm.  There were many who would patiently wait for his assistance over that from others, even if it meant returning another day.

One constant in Rudy’s life was the game of football.  He could often be found watching it on TV and coaching Pop Warner Football teams, dedicating a lot of time to the young players he met along the way.  He enjoyed tailgating at Arizona State University football games with family and later his Sunday ritual became a passion, tailgating with friends as a loyal Arizona Cardinals fan since day 1 (back when they were known as the Phoenix Cardinals).

Rudy loved music, was an incredible dancer, sought out fun, laughter, and cherished spending time with those he loved.  He enjoyed gathering with friends from his high school days and car club, the Monarchs, where they planned an annual “Oldies But Goodies” dance to fundraise for the youth in his childhood neighborhood.  It was a wonderful “excuse” for him to see friends as often as possible and dance the night away.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria, his children, Renae Germinaro (John) and Francine Williams (Mike), his grandchildren, Jenna and Mia Germinaro, his brother, Richard Balagat, sister, Dorita Steele (Mark) and many cherished nephews, nieces, extended family and dear friends.  He is preceded in death by his sister, Anita Morell.

A Rosary and Mass will be held on Monday, June 3, 2024 at St. Mary’s Basilica with interment at Arizona National Cemetery.

As Rudy prioritized finding joy in life, helping others, and persevering, the family asks that you do the same – “keep on, keeping on,” as he would often say.

In lieu of flowers please consider:

Arizona State Veteran’s Home
Arizona Cardinals Charities