It's always sad to hear that another person in one's life passes & I'm sorry to hear this. When I was just getting my feet wet in the world of women's pool in the Northeast, one of the events that I always looked forward to competing in was the Big Apple Championship held each year at Ovington Cue in Brooklyn, NY. It was held in the room owned by Jean's parents, Peggy & Al. I will never forget their kindness & encouragement - both of them always greeted each & every one of us with a huge smile - and were early supporters of the WPBA.
The last time I saw Mrs. Balukas was when I owned my own poolroom years later - around '89, I think. She had heard that I had opened a room in Vegas so took a little time out of her vacation to check it out. Anyone who ever came to Cue-Topia will remember the hundreds of photos of pool players I had on the walls. She asked if I had any of Jean &, of course, I did. I took her around the room showing her the photos of her daughter & some of the others of people that she knew. She told me the stories behind a few of the photos & I'm sure she enjoyed it as much as I did.
If you're reading this, Jean, please know that your mom was a very special lady - as well as your dad...two very special people who made a large impact on my life. I send my condolences to you & Paul & the rest of your family & to all those who knew her. RIP, Mrs. Balukas...
Mary Kenniston
