It is with very heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Jamie Balardo at the age of 57, on May 13, 2025. Born and raised in Dundas, Ontario, Jamie was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, and loyal friend. He had an unmatched willingness to help others, and his presence brought laughter, insight, and strength to everyone around him.
Jamie is survived by his beloved wife of 31 years, Trish, and his cherished children Chris (Morgan Vandriel) and Sean (Abby Entwistle). He will be deeply missed by his siblings Linda Watters (Bill), Mary Lynn (Mike Trainor), Mark (Anna), Paul (Tammy), Anthony (Sharon), Dave (Justine Best) and his many nieces and nephews who loved him. Jamie was predeceased by his loving parents, Rose and Tony Balardo.
A proud Desjardins Insurance Agent—like many in the Balardo family—Jamie built his career on trust, respect and a strong commitment to good customer service. He was an Insurance Agent in Paris, Ontario for over 20 years. Jamie was known for his sharp wit, boundless resilience, and ability to banter about absolutely anything. Whether it was boating on a sunny day, planning the next travel adventure, or just holding court at a family gathering, Jamie lived fully and loved fiercely.
Jamie was the toughest and funniest guy we’ve ever known. He always seemed to have the answer to life’s toughest questions and never failed to keep his family on their toes. He has gone far too soon and far too young. His absence will be felt deeply, but his memory will live on in the stories, laughter, and love he leaves behind.
To honour Jamie’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a private service will be held with family. A Celebration of Jamie’s Life will take place on Wednesday, July 30th, please see the details below.
The family would like to thank the staff at Juravinski Cancer Centre and Juravinski Hospital for their care and compassion.
In Jamie’s memory, please consider a donation to the Juravinski Cancer Centre or Juravinski Hospital https://www.hamiltonhealth.ca/donate .
Until we meet again, Jamie—your spirit will remain forever in our hearts!
CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Jamie Balardo
May 8, 1968 – May 13, 2025
We invite all who knew and loved Jamie to drop in and join our family as we remember and celebrate the life of Jamie Balardo on Wednesday, July 30th, 2025, from 4:00 – 8:00 pm at Flamborough Hills Golf Club. The Golf Club is located at 71 Hwy 52, Copetown, ON. Please come and share your memories with us.
As one of his first cousins who loved him, I am heartbroken. He was so kind and generous. Always happy and always positive. He will be missed by anyone who knew home, but especially by those who loved him. My heart goes out to Trish and his sons and siblings. If ever you need anything, I am here. Jamie was one of the first to reach out when I got. Love to all. He will be forever in my heart.
So sorry to hear of Jamie’s passing. Love to you, Trish, and your family. Hugs to the entire Balardo family.
My heart goes out to you all during this time. Sending all my love and my deepest condolences.
Little brother, you went far too soon. So glad we spent some good times together. Trish and family, we are thinking of you.
I am heartbroken, in disbelief, shock and at a loss for words at this very sad news. Jamie was not only a loyal, cherished, long time friend for over 30 years but a supportive co-worker long before he ventured off on is own into the Insurance business where he then became my Agent. Jamie was far more than my Agent, he was never too busy to see me, chat with me, answer questions or just catch up on our lives. Many a time I would just drop in to his office unannounced to say hello and he would always make time to see me, have lunch and catch up or even give me a tour of the latest renovations to the building. I will miss our chats and will miss him dearly and send my love, deepest sympathy, heartfelt condolences and healing hugs to Trish, Chris and Sean and all of his family.
Trish, Dwayne and I send our deepest deepest condolences to you, Shawn and Chris. We thought the world of Jamie and will miss seeing his smiling face.
Thinking of you all.❤️
A beautiful tribute for a wonderful guy and everything I remember of him during our days together in high school. To all his family, my deepest condolences. May he rest in peace 🙏
Stunned and heartbroken to hear that our dear friend Jamie has passed away. Condolences and love to Trish, Chris, Sean and the entire Balardo family.
Jamie was a true original. He was the funniest guy in the room. The best talker. And the most genuine person I’ve ever known.
The cruelty of his passing transcends words.
Trish, Chris and Sean, we are so very sorry to hear of Jamie’s passing. Far too young. Sending love to you all.
Lori & Shawn
This was devastating news to receive. A huge loss for the Balardo family and all who had the privilege of knowing Jamie. I always really enjoyed time spent with Jamie, extremely funny, friendly and welcoming. Alll great memories I will cherish. He will be dearly missed and I wish Trish, Chris and Sean peace and strength in the coming days.
Love the Trainor family
I always loved any time spent with Jamie. Their wedding was one of the best parties I’ve ever attended. He always brought a smile to the room, and I am so grateful to have had him for a cousin.
On behalf of your brothers on ice, we are truly shocked and saddened by this shocking loss. As in life, Jamie was a reliable, great and responsible member of the blue line. Jamie was the type of teammate you could always count on. His humour, good nature and easy going attitude were always on display both on and off the ice. A man of great character who will be truly missed. May your legacy always shine bright for family, friends and teammates. With heavy heart and love for our Jamie. Rick Austin and all his brothers from Monday and Thursday hockey.
I am so very sorry to hear of this. Jamie had such a sweet, kind and caring heart. Always smiling and laughing and spreading joy in the St. Mary’s hallways; a friend to many and a bright light. My deepest condolences to Trish and the Balardo family.
Diana Baldin
Dear Trish and the Balardo Family,
I’m in shock and so sorry to hear of Jamie’s passing. My heart goes out to you Trish and your boys and the entire Balardo family. Jamie and I went to St. Augustine’s and Mary’s together and I was so fortunate to chat with him at the last STM poker night. It was so nice to catch up with him, he was so sweet as I always remember him and that smile. He left us far too soon.
We are so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you.
Mike, Tina, Mitch , Zach and Erik Cassar
I was deeply saddened to hear the news of Jamie’s passing. Having played hockey with Jamie over the past several years, he was always thoughtful and genuine. Always ready to laugh and never took himself too seriously. As an acquaintance he was a great guy. I can only imagine the loss felt by his close friends and family. God bless.
Jamie was a friend, Jamie was a buddy. Our high school friend group has a couple poker nights a year, more eating, drinks and joking than poker. Jamie’s family should know that when Jamie attended it was better, complete and truly made the night special. He was loved by us all because he was the best guy. Everyone in the group had their role Jamie was different he was someone who just completed us. I cannot imagine how hard this is for the family but thank you for having a celebration of life as there are many many people who want to pay respects to a guy that was loved by all.
Truly heartbroken with Jamie’s passing. He was a cherished friend and the person who would do anything for you. It’s difficult to find the words, condolences to Trish, Chris, Sean and the whole family.
Jamie, you were my first best friend in grade one in primary school at St. Augustines in Dundas. Even then you were a solid and loyal mate as we tore up and down the playground together. We shared a common background, both of us lucky to be spoiled and molded by older siblings in a big Italian family. Growing up, you were funny, athletic, a great team -mate and companion as we tried to figure out life together. You were always handy and mechanically inclined, saving us from being stranded more than once. And you had a great full head of wholly hair so many friends nicknamed you Lamb. (Which was better than the nickname you first gave me on vacation in Alcapulco – Roacholino !)
You were also fortunate to meet Trish, your true soulmate, at an early age with whom you made a loving family life together. Although we saw each other only periodically over the past 35 years, I was not surprised that you raised a wonderful family and had a successful career given your natural talents and strong values.
I’m shocked that my good friend is gone way too soon. May he rest in peace, he will not be forgotten.
Sincere condolences to Trish and the whole Balardo family.
I’m so sorry to hear the loss of your brother Dave. May you and your family find the strength to get through this difficult time supporting each other with many great memories with Jamie and his family. ❤️🩹🙏
Condoglianze alla grande famiglia. It is tough to lose a loyal and long time friend like Lamb.
There are many many others who share my sadness and like Jimmy have many stories. That’s what makes me smile 😊 through the tears.
My favorite memory is our famous tackle football game at sanctuary park. It was Jamie that ran back to his house to get his brothers to help us play against some older hicks. They saved us.
Shocked and truly saddened to hear of Jamie’s passing. I worked with Jamie at Social Services for several years. He had a quick a wit and endearing smile. I remember when he told me was ready to leave and try the insurance business like his brothers. He made a success out of that as his easy going nature was well suited to that role. Sincerest condolences to Trish and her family and the Balardo family.
I’m deeply saddened and in shock with the loss of my longtime friend, Jamie. We go all the way back to our days at St. Augustine’s grade school, and then through St. Mary’s high and driving his brother’s muscle cars!! Our four years working at Dundas Golf and Country club where he almost lost his thumb!!! I’ll always cherish the countless Friday nights we spent playing hockey & then eating at Tally Ho for a late night snack!! The unforgettable poker nights with our St. Mary’s crew. Jamie and his kind heart, and his memory will stay with me always. My thoughts and prayers are with Trish, Chris and Sean during this difficult time. He will be missed!!
Trish and family.
My condolences and prayers. Jamie will be deeply missed by many.
The one thing I remember most about Jamie was; when he was about 2yrs old and I was about 17. We were at the cottage, sitting on the wood porch. He liked staying close to me because I’d tickle him and make him laugh. His laugh was so deep and heart felt, that it would make me laugh as well.
Till we laugh again. RIP
Your cousin, Donna and Aunt Rose Castellani
Dear Trish and Balardo family
Such sad news. I have fond memories of our family reunions many years ago, when all the cousins, Aunt and Uncles would gather to play bocce and just share family stories. Please know that your cousins out West are thinking about you and sending our deepest condolences 🙏
Trish,Chris and Sean – we are truly shocked and saddened with the news of Jamie’s passing – so many laughs such a kind nature and always a massive smile! God speed our forever friend John, Lisa Ian and Jacob
I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Jamie Even though high school was a long time ago, the bond we all shared has always felt timeless—especially during our annual poker games. Jamie brought a special energy to the table, not just as a player but as a friend with a great calmness (that may have been his poker face!) and never putting on airs.
40 years may have passed since high school, but friendships like ours don’t fade. I’m grateful we got to keep that connection going all these years. Jamie’s absence will be deeply felt every time we gather. My thoughts are with Trish and family and all of us who were lucky to know Jamie. Rest in peace my friend!
I am very saddened to hear about Jamie.I played hockey with Jamie for several years. Jamie would talk to anyone with full respect,he was a real gentlemen, I Would like to give my condolences to the Balardo family,he will be deeply missed.
I’m so saddened to hear about the passing of Uncle Jay (as I called him!). I’ve had the privilege of getting to know the entire Balardo family, specifically at the family cottage over many summers. Jay always had a smile on his face and was so welcoming, he will be sincerely missed. Trish, Chris and Sean – I’m thinking of you and offer my deepest sympathies. To the entire Balardo family, sending my love and a big hug.
Ben and I were so saddened to hear about Jamie’s passing. We always loved his sense of humour and good nature. Love to you all.
As kids we had great fun together growing up at Lake Erie Cottage “Baby Jay “ always smiling , inquisitive and giggling as MaryLynn & I chased him Running so fast , he’d lose his diapers. He was very agile
My mom ( Auntie Theresa) fondly remembers how Jamie made her smile , even if he was in touble.
We hold forever in our hearts Jamie’s smile and the joy he brought to everyone who knew him.
Deepest condolences , compassion and love to Jamie’s family & friends at this very difficult time
Auntie Theresa Travale
Carmi Travale ( Lenartowich)
From the Montreal side of the family (Michel ,Bridget,Emily(Lucas),Phillip(Audrey).We offer our sincere condolences and be assured, dear Trisha, that you are constantly in our thoughts and prayers.
Trish, Chris, Sean and to the entire Balardo clan. It was awful to hear of Jamie’s much to early passing and know that he will be deeply missed. Growing up with a “go to guy” like him could best be described as a privilege. I have many great memories but one of my favourites was at 16 we were changing the spark plugs on my father’s Dodge in the driveway. By we I mean he because I was simply along for the ride watching a guy much wiser than his years taking care of business.
As time passed it was always great to see Jamie at poker games or when he would pop in for a visit at work. Every time we met up and had a conversation reminded me of why he was and always will be that guy. Rest in peace Lamb and we’ll see you up the road.
Truly heartbreaking. Gone far too soon. Sending our deepest condolences to Trish, Sean, Chris and of Jamie’s family and friends.
To Trish , Mary Lynn and all of the Balardo Family. We are sending Our deepest condolences . We are truly saddened by this news. 😢Jim and Lori , Nicky and Stephen.
Sorry for your loss and our prayers for you and your family .
I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Jamie. I always loved talking to his office and staff in Paris, ON.
I pray that his family is comforted in this difficult time and supported by those who cared, loved and knew Jamie.
May God bless you and keep you, Jamie and family.
Frank, Underwriter with Desjardins.
To Patricia, Chris, Sean and the Balardo family. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I am sending my deepest condolences.
Truly saddened by Jamie’s passing . He came to my office as a trainee agent and I had no doubt he would be a great one . He was smart , witty and fun to be around . Condolences to his immediate and extended family. Hope we get a chance to celebrate him later this summer. I am Blessed to have met him !
I am shocked and saddened by this news. Jamie and i worked together at canadian tire many years ago. We all hung out as friends and collegues. It was always a pleasure to talk to Jamie. His smile could be seen across the room. My sincerest condolences and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time.
Trish, Sean and Chris,
We are so terribly sorry to hear about Jamie’s passing. He was always the friendliest face at the hockey arena! Lots of great memories. Thinking of you all.
Dear Trish, Chris and Sean, we are so sorry to hear about your loss. Please accept our deepest condolences. Our heart goes out to you and your family during this incredibly difficult time.
May you find comfort in the love that surrounds you and peace in the memories you cherish. You all are in our thought prayers.
With deepest sympathy, Chris & George
So sorry and saddened to hear of Jamie’s passing
Growing up with Jamie and the Balardo cousins were the best memories for me in my younger years. Reflecting on those times spent with everyone makes me happy and very blessed
Sending our deepest condolences and love to
the family.
John Travale & Diane Hawke
Dear Balardo Family Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time. We are sending you our love and condolences. Jamie was our Insurance Agent for about 17 years. We appreciated his services very much. God bless you all and receive His comfort. Love Marinus & Alie Paul
Jamie was one of those rare souls whose presence made the world brighter, kinder, and more deeply human. His warmth, wit, and unwavering compassion touched everyone lucky enough to know him. Jamie had a gift—an extraordinary ability to make others feel seen, heard, and loved. Whether with a word of encouragement, a helping hand, or simply his calm and steady presence, he lifted people up and never hesitated to walk alongside those in need.
His generosity of spirit was matched only by his loyalty and integrity. Jamie gave freely of himself—not for recognition, but because he truly cared. He lived with purpose, led with his heart, and left behind a legacy of love, friendship, and service that will echo in the lives of all who knew him.
The loss of Jamie leaves an ache that words can’t quite mend. But even in sorrow, we hold on to the joy of having shared time with someone so truly remarkable.
“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” – Mahatma Gandhi
You are missed, Jamie… deeply and dearly. Thank you for your friendship. RIP
My deepest sympathy to you and your sons Trish.
So sorry to hear of Jamie;s passing, Fond memories of working with him at ont, works. He helped me buy my 2005 Honda (which I still drive,) , came to my place to help a struggling ole gal on my computer. so patient. His humour, smile and caring still lingers on. Sincere condolences to Family.
As a client of Jamie’s for 20 years, I am shocked and deeply saddened by his passing.
My deepest condolences go out to the whole Balardo Family, his friends, and colleagues.
What a tremendous human being he was!
He left a lasting, loving, welcoming, curious, impression on everyone who’s lives he touched, including mine.
I’m sure he has instilled this qualities in his children and I feel better knowing the world will still shine brightly when it is touched by them as well. 000000
I am so sorry to hear of Jamie’s passing. It is way too soon. Our thoughts are with you
Andrea Abbott
Matthew, Graham and Eric Hebscher
Absolutely heartbroken to hear of Jamie’s passing.
Our deepest sympathies to Jamie’s friends, family and loved ones at this difficult time.
To Jamie’s family. We are deeply saddened to hear of Jamie’s passing. We send you our deepest condolences. We never met Jamie in person, but always talked to him and his staff on the phone. He was the nicest, friendliest and professional man. He will be truly missed!
Trish, Chris, Sean and the rest of the Balardo family – we are shocked and heartbroken by this new and our hearts go out to you all! Brent, Jillian, Hayden, Christina and Noah Wirzman,
I just opened the letter from Desjardins about Jamie’s death and am stunned by this sad news. Jamie was such a caring, kind, and reassuring presence. He will be greatly missed. May his memory bring peace to all who love him. I will never forget him.
Rev. Barbara Fullerton
To Jamies’s family,
The Clarkson family sends their deepest condolences, he will be greatly missed.
Tasha
Trish, Chris, Sean and the rest of the Bolardo Family.
Deeply saddened to hear the passing of Jamie. I will forever remember Jamie’s
postive qualities, laughter, kindness, wit,and his compete level over the years
playing Friday night hockey with both sons Chris & Sean.
He will be dearly missed by all.
Trish, Chris & Sean our deepest sympathies
Mark/Jackie Wirzman & Family
My sincerest condolences to the family and everyone Jamie knew. He was so incredibly kind to me and always remembered who I was when I call or come to the office. My heart breaks for your loss.
Renee Perssia
I am so very sorry to hear of Jamie’s passing. I found out from a letter in the mail. Jamie has been my family agent for over 20 years. I always loved calling to catch up with him. He was always so kind and trustworthy. I knew if I wanted the best advice, I was getting it when I asked him for it. My thoughts are with you. He was such a great guy and he will be so missed.
Jamie was my insurance agent in Paris for many, many years. I always looked forward to our fun chats in the office – about anything and everything. He had a sense of humour like no other. He was a kind soul and a staple in our community. Heartfelt condolences to Jamie’s family, friends, colleagues and customers. RIP Jamie. May your memory be a blessing.
To the dear friends and family, please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved Jamie.
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is never an easy process. We trust that you may find great comfort recalling those many high-spirited family gatherings that were a hallmark of his life.
Jamie possessed an unwavering down-to-earth nature and a remarkable sense of humour. He embraced life fully, with a deep sense of family, serving as an exceptional educator, a gifted Insurance Professional, and an inspiration to all who knew him.
May he rest in peace, knowing that his legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those who cherished him.
With love and respect,
John & Ginger Marchese
So deeply saddened to hear of Jamie’s passing. I worked with Jamie at Ontario Works many years ago now. That said, the passage of time hasn’t dulled my memory of his snappy wit and the many laughs and good times we all had at the office because of it.
My deepest sympathy to all of Jamie’s loved ones; may your warm memories bring you some peace and comfort during this difficult time.
My condolences to you Trish and the rest of the family. Jamie was my insurance agent for many years and I enjoyed talking to him about everything under the sun and we always kept in touch about getting his Jeep done. Again my deepest condolences.
Dear Trish, Chris, Sean, and family,
We are truly heartbroken to hear of Jamie’s passing. Gone too soon, may you find strength in all your memories.
Denise & Ed
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Jamie’s passing. I worked with Jamie for 10 years in Brantford. So many great memories of a group of us who all started around the same time and played baseball together, not to mention many pranks around the office and many social outings. Working in a small environment we all got to know one another well. I considered Jamie and Trish to be dear friends Jamie was such a good person, friend and family man who loved his wife and children dearly. I have a wonderful memory of Jamie that made me respect him even more than I already did. I always admired Jamie’s strength and great morals and his amazing positivity and sense of humor. My heartfelt sympathies to Trish, Sean and Chris and all of their family for such a sudden and tragic loss of such a great man. Much love and prayers to all of you. Rest in peace Jamie!
Trish, Chris and Sean. We were shocked and saddened to hear of Jamie’s passing. We have fond memories of Jamie’s easy going attitude. You are in our thoughts and prayers
Dave, Tobi, Tristan,Liam,Maya and Alyssa