Obituary of Mario R. Balladares

Mario R. Balladares of Stafford, VA passed on August 1, 2019. He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Martha T. Balladares, daughter Martha Linville and son Michael Balladares. Mario is also survived by his sisters Elia, Yolanda, Gloria, Dori, and his brothers Oscar and Jimmy. Mario was actively involved with his grandchildren, great grandchildren, and nieces here in Northern Virginia. Especially close to him were his nieces, Adriana, and Elita here in Northern Virginia. Mario was born in Cochabamba, Bolivia and came to the United States in 1969. Mario became a citizen, attended culinary school and became a gourmet chef. He worked at various prestigious restaurants throughout his lifetime. Most of his career was spent working for French restaurants. He spent over 10 years working at La Bergerie in Old Town Alexandria and over 20 years working at The French Bistro on M Street in Georgetown. Once he retired, he missed cooking so much that he took a job close to his house working for a German Restaurant until he was no longer able to work. Mario was a very giving brother and husband. As Mario worked his way up to become a gourmet chef, he provided to his siblings and loved ones in Bolivia. He entrusted his brother Ramiro by sending him money, monthly, to make sure his siblings were taken care of and provided for. He paved the way for his sister Gloria and brother Jimmy to come to the United States where they were able to flourish on their own. He also frequently cooked and provided gourmet deserts for his family get togethers and even donated food to his children and grandchildren’s schools. Mario was an avid runner in his early 40’s and always loved to watch soccer games. Mario passed from complications of diabetes. We will surely miss him. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in the memory of Mario R. Balladares to National Federation of the Blind (in honor of his great grandson JP).