Joseph M. “Joe” Baltazar, 69, of Lowell, Massachusetts, passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Lowell General Hospital following a period of declining health. He was surrounded by his loving family at the time of his passing, marking the loss of a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed.
Joe was the beloved husband of Maria (Pimentel) Baltazar, with whom he shared nearly 49 years of marriage. Together, they built a life grounded in love, faith, and resilience. Their upcoming anniversary in September now stands as a heartfelt reminder of their enduring bond.
Born on November 10, 1956, in São Miguel, Azores, Portugal, Joe was the son of the late David S. and Maria Rosa (Peixoto) Baltazar. He spent his early years in São Miguel before immigrating to the United States at the age of 11, settling in Lowell, where he remained for the rest of his life. He attended local schools and graduated from Lowell High School.
Joe was known for his strong work ethic and commitment to his profession. He spent his career as a truck driver, beginning with Baker Commodities. Over the years, he contributed to major infrastructure projects, including work on the Big Dig and the expansion of Route 3. He later returned to Baker Commodities, where he dedicated more than two decades before retiring.
A man deeply connected to his community, Joe was a communicant of St. Anthony’s Church and an active member of several Portuguese-American organizations, including the Portuguese American Civic League, the Red’s Club, the Portuguese American Center, and the Blue’s Club. His heritage and community involvement were central to his life.
Above all, Joe cherished his family, especially his grandchildren. He is survived by his daughters, Lisa Brown and her husband Harold of Lowell, and Sandra Borges and her husband Alex of Tyngsboro; as well as his three beloved grandchildren, Abigail Brown, Tiago Borges, and Leandro Borges. He is also survived by his brothers, David Baltazar of Lowell and Charlie Baltazar of Arizona, along with many nieces, nephews, godchildren, and friends.
His family has requested that donations be made in his memory to the American Heart Association.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at McDonough Funeral Home in Lowell, followed by funeral services and burial at Lowell Cemetery.
Joseph M. “Joe” Baltazar will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his hardworking nature, and the lasting impact he made on those around him.
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