Albert Florez Balderas

1928 - 2024

Albert Florez Balderas, 96, loving father, grandfather, uncle, brother and cherished friend of many, passed away peacefully at his home in Flagstaff on June 10th, surrounded by family, his wonderful caregivers, and his beloved dog, Mocha. He will be remembered by his bright smile and loving personality. Albert was born April 24th, 1928, in Williams, Arizona to Joe and Guadalupe Balderas. He graduated from Williams High School in 1948 and then joined the US Army and went to serve in Korea. He earned a Bronze Star for his heroism and bravery when he volunteered to accompany a rescue squad through heavy gunfire to help rescue his fellow wounded soldiers.

Albert met the love of his life, Edna Garcia, at a dance in Seligman. They were married in November 1952 and had three children, Chris, Clif, and Cheryl. Albert worked as a short-haul truck driver for Lively Transfer and Storage. He also drove for ICX, Yellow Freight, and CF. He drove and delivered freight all over Northern Arizona.

Albert worked hard for many years to take care of his family and eventually retired in 1991. He loved exploring Arizona and neighboring states. He and Edna especially loved camping and would pull their camping trailer to White Horse Lake and Mormon Lake in the summer months. Many memories were made with immediate and extended family and friends during those times. Albert was also an animal lover and always had a dog or a cat nearby. He so enjoyed the birds that would come and eat at the bird feeders in the yard. All of the family's beloved pets are buried in the backyard of the Balderas home.

Albert was a faithful parishioner at San Francisco de Asis Catholic church here in Flagstaff and a loyal member of the Sunday 8:00 AM choir. He loved listening to music and playing his guitar.

Albert is preceded in death by his father, Joe and Mother Guadalupe, brother Joe Jr. and sister Carmen Luna. His beloved Edna passed away in 2004 and son Chris in 2018. He is survived by his son Clif and daughter Cheryl Schrader (Tim). He also leaves behind four grandchildren, Alejandro, Jake, Cassie, and Marissa and two great grandchildren, Evie and Ella.

Services will be held on Friday, July 5th at San Francisco de Asis Catholic Parish. Rosary will begin at 10 am and Mass will follow at 10:30 am. Interment will be at the Ash Fork cemetery following Mass. A midday lunch will be served at 3pm in the St. Bonaventure room at San Francisco de Asis Catholic Parish and School.