Donald J. Ballard, Jr.

Donald J. Ballard, Jr. passed on December 20, 2024, at 89. Donald was born in Fulton on February 16, 1935, to Fairy (Stauring) and Donald Ballard. He went off to serve in the Marines at 18 in 1953 and served until 1956 and was in the reserves until 1961. At discharge, he received: Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal and United Nations Service Medal. When Don was discharged in Los Angeles he met the very charming Betty Lenhart. They married and moved to Fulton and raised their family.

Don’s passions in life were bowling, golfing, Sunday drives, picnics, long nature walks and traveling. Of course, his number one love was being a husband, dad and grandpa. Don was inducted into the bowling hall of fame in 2005; he came from a long line of family members in the bowling hall of fame. He retired from Black Clawson and enjoyed every moment of his retirement by living his passions.

Surviving is a daughter: Cathy (Mark) France (Brandon, Laurie and Travis); 3 Sons: Douglas (Kelly) Ballard (Tanner and Celia); Thomas Ballard, Jeff Ballard and Jane Lamie (Ashley and Brianna) and 10 great-grandchildren. Also, step-daughter, Gail (Ron) Hilton (Tricia and Chrissy). Predeceased by wife Betty, sister Janet and two brothers, Robert and Jake.

Calling hours will be held at Foster Funeral Home, 910 Fay Street, Fulton on Friday, January 10, 2025, from 4 to 6 pm. Services will immediately follow at 6 pm.