Batiste 'Buddy' Joseph Giardina, Jr.

Batiste ‘Buddy’ Joseph Giardina, Jr. lost his brave and courageous fight against cancer on Monday, June 26, 2017. Buddy died on the birthday of his late mother, Phil, who certainly welcomed him home with open arms. He was 70 years old, a native of New Orleans and a resident of Kenner, LA for over 40 years. Buddy was a self-employed mechanic and body shop owner through his life. He could repair or modify anything! He loved antique automobiles, tinkering with motors, collecting anything imaginable and gardening by maintaining many plants from his childhood home, which were grown by his father! He was a member of the B.A.T. Club of Kenner. Buddy was the son of Batiste Giardina, Sr. and Phyllis S. Giardina, both who preceded him in death. His brother, Ralph J. Giardina (the late Linda) also preceded him in death in 2014. He is survived by his devoted and loving companion, Laura Lee Hasselbeck, who was his tireless caregiver. Laura never left his side and is certainly an angel sent from heaven. Other survivors include his children, Michael V. Giardina, who is his youngest child, Batiste J. Giardina, III, Angelo V. Giardina, Sr. (Ruthanne), Dreux C. Land of Crocket, TX, (Misty), Nicholas B. Giardina of Cleveland, Ohio, Lisa M. Giardina, Maria A. Foy, and John G. Otillio IV (Bonnie); loving sisters, Lena G. Pizzo (the late Paul) and Mickie G. Bayer (the late Charlie); and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren who he truly loved and adored. Others left to mourn him are his countless friends, business associates and acquaintances who thought the world of him and he reciprocated the same affection towards them. The Giardina Family would like to thank all their family and friends as well as Buddy’s friends and business associates who have walked this tough journey with him. Buddy was truly appreciative of every prayer, visit, phone call, and card. He had a sensitive side that rarely showed, but was so moved by everyone’s kindness to him during his illness. We would also like to thank Father Richard M. Miles and Father Albert Villosillo for their constant attention to Buddy’s religious needs for many years. Buddy was truly appreciative of their pastoring to him as a parishioner. Additionally, thanks goes out to Kurt Garcia, Attorney at Law, who offered much friendship, kindness and assistance to Buddy through the years. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation on Friday morning, June 30, 2017 from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at L.A. Muhleisen & Son Funeral Home, 2607 Williams Blvd., Kenner, LA (504)466-8577 followed by a Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 500 Minor St., Kenner, LA at 1:00 p.m. Interment in St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 in the Resurrection Mausoleum, 3421 Esplanade Avenue, New Orleans, LA.

Tributes

Batiste 'Buddy' Joseph Giardina, Jr.

November 24, 1946 - June 26, 2017