In Memory of Jerry Balcer
Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 11:42AM 
It is always difficult to lose a friend, and unfortunately, on Sunday June 1st, my friend Jerry lost his battle with heart disease and passed away from congestive heart failure. He was only 47. I created a video as a tribute for Jerry, see it after the break.
Jerry Balcer Memorial Video from Colin Sato on Vimeo.
As his sales consultant I helped him with three cars, but I can say that during the 11 years that I knew him, he lived and breathed NSXs. He would often send me e-mails with whatever NSX tidbits he uncovered. His time with the NSX was only a 3 year lease, but he loved every minute of the experience.
The highlight of his time with the car was NSXPO ’99. I assisted with getting his car shipped to the mainland for the event, and our GM arranged for another dealer on in Long Beach to pick up his car from the pier and get it prepped for Jerry’s arrival. He had a blast meeting other NSX owners, driving through scenic Southern California and of course getting his car on the track at Laguna Seca. I truly believe that this was one the best experiences he ever had.
The friendships he made continued after the event. He was instrumental in getting the local chapter of the NSXCA set up in Hawaii, and every time a fellow NSXer came to town, he would offer to meet up for dinner or drinks. Interestingly, his involvement got me into the sport of autocrossing. Through one connection or another, he was invited to a ‘test and tune’ day with our local SCCA chapter. He in turn, invited me and I was hooked. Both my wife and I raced our S2000 for three more years!
I have always been a ‘car guy’ but Jerry helped me develop a greater appreciation for ‘car culture.’ If it weren’t for him, I doubt I would have started the local S2000 club or started planning car cruises and other events.
On Father's Day, his step daughter, her boyfriend and my wife and I, traveled to Kauai to honor his final wishes. It was his desire to have his ashes scattered at the lighthouse at Kilauea Point. (we spoke with the officials and they had no objections). So under a brilliant summer sun and with the accompaniment of crashing waves and crying seabirds, we scattered Jerry's ashes to the wind.
Thank you for reading this note, and thanks for downloading his short video, Jerry will be missed. - C.S.
The helicopter footage on Kauai was borrowed from Blue Hawaiian Helicopters website. I hope they don't mind this usage of their beautiful videography.
Editors note: The following comments were submitted for this post on my old site, I felt that it was important to move these to my new page.
Comments
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I read the topic on NSXPrime about the early death of Jerry Balcer, beeing even a year younger than I am myself. Makes one reflect on his own life and how unexpectedly it can end in a moment. My condolances to all who had a part in his life. The video is a beautiful tribute. By how he deals with the memory of his friend, Colin has proven to be a worthy friend, one to be treasured by all people who know him and can call him their friend.
Regards,
René SmeenkThe Netherlands, Europe A fellow NSX owner
#1 René Smeenk on 2008-06-28 17:28 (Reply)
You died too soon to be sure, but it's obvious you had dear friends who cared very deeply about you. R.I.P. from your extended Honda enthusiast family.
#2 Ron Adams on 2008-06-28 19:38 (Reply)
"Each person's death diminishes us all". Certainly true amongst the family of auto enthusiasts who so unselfishly share their passion with kindred spirits.
Colin posted the word of Jerry's death on the s2ki 'Vintage' forum. Although I never met Jerry... or Colin... it is clear that Jerry was a very special person, and a very special friend. My sincere condolences to all of his family, and to all of his friends.
May the memories of all the good times you shared with Jerry remain with you always.
#3 Roy Milan on 2008-06-28 21:48 (Reply)
I'm not really good with events like these : *( but as a NSX lover myself.. i give my condolences to all
#4 Aarvin (musicmanvin) on 2008-06-28 22:54 (Reply)
Beautiful memory tribute to one who must have been a wonderful friend.
#5 Barrett on 2008-06-29 09:11 (Reply)
I have never met Jerry, and therefore did not have the pleasure to know him. However, I have been friends with Colin for over a decade and had dinner with him just a few weeks ago while I was on Oahu. Knowing Colin as I do, Jerry must have been a truly awesome person and motor head to be such an inspiration. Jerry, having not had the pleasure of knowing you is my loss. R.I.P. My condolences to Jerry's family and friends.
Aloha,
Matt
#6 Matt_in_VA on 2008-06-29 21:24 (Reply)
My condolences. I've never met Jerry but have always seen his enthusiastic posts in the online NSX community. His posts were so lively and upbeat and I just loved reading his messages. I hoped to one day meet him... I was sad to hear of his death. I just found out today.
That was a beautiful tribute video. It brought me to tears... he will be missed. :-(
#7 Conrad on 2008-06-30 02:44 (Reply)
My condolences. I only knew Jerry via his witty postings on NSXPrime. I'm sure he will be missed on more ways than one.
R.I.P.
#8 Robert in 93036 [REV2 8K] (Link) on 2008-08-11 14:47 (Reply)
Colin, What a beautiful tribute to your friend. It brought tears to my eyes.
No wonder your customers are loyal and devoted because you truly care about servicing their needs. You're not just an auto salesperson, but a man who is passionate about cars, maintenance and performance and have many fine friends. Love you, Mom
#9 Colin's mom on 2008-08-23 00:28 (Reply)
I knew Jerry and his family. His mother, grandmother, sister, brother, and his brother's children. I remember babysitting them and giving them a lesson on brushing their teeth. I'm so sorry for the loss you must feel still. I went to high school and college with Jerry. I remember him fondly and think of him often. Thank you for the lovely tribute. I feel both warm memories and deep sadness viewing the tribute especially seeing his pictures.
We shared many special moments together and I will always remember Jerry, his family, and now you a very special friend. Thank you.
#10 Elizabeth Summerell (Link) on 2010-08-20 17:28 (Reply)
Reader Comments (2)
I was sadded to hear of Jerry's passing. I go way back to my first year at Eastern Illinois University with Jerry being by room mate in Stevenson Tower. Jerry was like a big brother in the way one always looks out for a younger family member. It's hard to believe that heart failure was the cause of death because he always kept in shape by running and lifting weights. My memories are great of Jerry, make you rest in peace.
John T. Fabiano
Thank you so much for sharing your remembrances of Jerry with me. In many ways, I feel that he worked as hard as he did on his health and fitness because he felt his family history was suspect (heart problems run in the family).