Marianie Orina Balolong

Retired US Navy Commander Marianie “Marn” Balolong, 50, beloved husband and father, passed away on December 16, 2024, in Jacksonville, Florida. He was born on March 18, 1974, in Pensacola, Florida to Antonio V. Balolong and Angelita O. Balolong. On September 5th, 1998 Marn married the love of his life Marilyn Bartolazo and started their family.

Marn started his naval career at Jacksonville University’s Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps program where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in marine science in 1996. In 1998, he attended Naval Postgraduate School where he earned a Master of Science degree in meteorology and physical oceanography. During Marn’s 20-year distinguished career he served in numerous high-profile naval positions ultimately attaining the rank of Commander in the Navy. He has been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (six awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards), and various other military campaign awards.

Following Marn’s retirement from the Navy, the Balolong’s moved back to Jacksonville, Florida to be close to family. Marn was a loving husband and father that was fully devoted to his family. He was a dedicated, heartfelt Catholic who loved giving back to his community whether it was at his church, with the kid’s sports groups, or serving as an honor guard for fellow veterans. His passions included attending Jaguar football games, surfing and vacationing with his family.

Marn is preceded in death by his brother Martin Balolong (d. 2011), father Antonio Balolong (d. 2021), and mother Angelita Balolong (d. 2024). He is survived by his loving family, wife Marilyn along with their three children, Maya, Marc, and Mateo; sister Ellie and her husband Chris Beury.

A Visitation for Marn will be held Sunday, December 22, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hardage-Giddens Chapel Hills Funeral Home, 850 St Johns Bluff Road North, Jacksonville, FL 32225. A Funeral Mass will occur Monday, December 23, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at San Juan Del Rio Catholic Church, 1718 FL-13, Jacksonville, FL 32259.