Joseph M. “Joe” Baltazar, 69, of Lowell, passed away at Lowell General Hospital on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, after a period of declining health, surrounded by his loving family. His passing marks the loss of a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose presence was deeply cherished by all who knew him.
Joe was the beloved husband of Maria (Pimentel) Baltazar, with whom he shared nearly 49 years of marriage. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, and resilience. Their upcoming anniversary in September now stands as a poignant reminder of a lifelong bond filled with love and dedication.
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 childhood in São Miguel before immigrating to the United States at the age of 11, settling in Lowell, Massachusetts, where he would spend the rest of his life. He attended local schools and graduated from Lowell High School.
Joe dedicated his life to hard work and integrity. He spent his entire career as a truck driver, beginning at Baker Commodities. He later contributed to major infrastructure projects, including work on the Big Dig and the widening of Route 3. Eventually, he returned to Baker Commodities, where he remained for more than 20 years until his retirement.
A man of strong community ties, 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 connections were an important part of his identity.
Above all, Joe’s greatest joy in life was his family, especially his grandchildren. He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Lisa Brown and her husband Harold of Lowell, and Sandra Borges and her husband Alex of Tyngsboro; and his three cherished grandchildren, Abigail Brown, Tiago Borges, and Leandro Borges. He is also survived by his brothers, David Baltazar of Lowell and Charlie Baltazar of Arizona, as well as many nieces, nephews, friends, and godchildren.
Joe’s family invites donations 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. Baltazar will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and lovingly honored for a life defined by hard work, family devotion, and enduring love.