Michael G. Balencia

Michael Gill Balencia (Papi), 74, peacefully greeted the Lord with open arms on May 27th, 2025, in his home surrounded by his wife and all his children.

Michael was born on October 8, 1950, to Porfirio Balencia and Olivia Gill in Artesia, NM.

In 1969, Michael served the United States Army -82nd Airborne with unwavering patriotism and honorably discharged in 1971.

Michael and Teresa’s first meeting turned into a first date and the love continued to grow. They committed their lives to each other on February 12, 1972, and grew their family with faith and love at its core.

Being the hard worker that he is, Michael retired from Navajo Refinery and was lastly employed for Kizer Transportation and drove bus #2 for Artesia Public Schools. He was a man of many skills and loved to help whenever he could.

Michael was devoted to his faith, which is such an inspiration for his children and all who knew him. He was an active member at St. Anthonys Catholic Church and loved to serve the Lord in all ways possible.

Michael is survived by his wife, Teresa Balencia and children: Michael (Yolanda), Joseph, Michelle (Tommy), John (Marissa), and Rachel (Michael). He is so very loved by his grandchildren: DeAnna, Thomas, Anthony, Jordyn, Jaelynn, Jayden, Michael, Izzy, Keilani, Analia, Melli, Davien, Joseph, Alyssa, Alex and great grandchildren. Michael is an amazing father, but God must have made him to be a Papi. He loves those kids more than they will ever know and was so proud.

Michael was proceeded in death by his daughters, Annette and JoAnna, and his parents. Funeral Services were held on Friday May 30th at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and burial followed at Woodbine Cemetery.

Michael: loving husband, amazing father, best Papi, devoted catholic, proud veteran and someone you can count on. He loved to be present and involved in all thing’s grandkid related. He loved his coffee every morning and apple pies. He could make amazing things and fix everything. He enjoyed watching softball, growing his garden, singing and going to the casino. He had a smile and twinkle in his eye that will never be forgotten. To know him was to love him. Michael’s kindness, generosity, and love for his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. Anyone that crossed his path were met with love and compassion. He believed in building not just structures or things, but also relationships and memories that stand the test of time.