Obituary of Mañuco Balta

Manuel Jesus Balta, known affectionately as "Mañuco," passed away on August 14, 2024, at the age of 81, in Paterson, New Jersey. Born on June 14, 1943, in Surquillo, Lima, Peru, he brought joy and laughter to all who knew him.

Mañuco was a playful and loving individual, a jokester with a radiant, spontaneous energy who welcomed everyone into his life. He was a devoted family man, deeply committed to his loved ones and dogs. His resilience and strength shone through his work, from his early days in textile factories to his dedicated service at the Montclair Board of Education as a certified boiler man and custodian. The only thing sweeter than his heart, was his sweet tooth, as he loved his ice cream and pastries. Mañuco enjoyed spending time reading the daily newspaper catching up on current events, as well as watching soccer, horse racing, and his favorite tv shows and movies. Mañuco also loved traveling to Puerto Rico to visit family and enjoy the island.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Migdalia Balta; his children, Manny Balta, Lilia Esther Balta, Grace Waller, and Samantha Balta; and his grandson, Noah Balta; daughter in law Johanna Shinzato and sons in laws Lawrence Waller and Steven Ortiz. He also leaves behind his sister, Hortencia Facuse, and brother, Hugo Balta, and many nieces and nephews. Mañuco was preceded in death by his parents, Esther and Roman Balta, and his siblings, Yolanda, Roman, Lucy, and Tania Balta.

A viewing will be held at Festa Funeral Home in Totowa, New Jersey, from 8:30 am to 9:30 am on Monday August 19, 2024, followed by a Mass at St. John's Cathedral at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in Oradell, NJ, and/or North Shore Animal League America, honoring Mañuco's hard fought battle with Cancer and his love for dogs.

Festa Funeral Home in Totowa, New Jersey, is assisting with the arrangements, ensuring that Mañuco's farewell is as memorable as the life he so joyfully lived.