Frederick Ball, 77

Frederick “Fred” Ball, age 77 from New Richmond, Wis. died peacefully on Feb. 17, 2009 surrounded by his family at the St. Croix Health Center after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born on Jan. 22, 1932 in New Richmond to Frederick and Blanche (Germain) who preceded him in death.

Fred was married to Ruth (Walz) Ball on Oct. 6, 1956 at the Church of St. Gall in Tintah, Minn.

In recent times Fred was a Township Supervisor for the Town of Richmond; he also served on the Senior Center Board of Directors. Formerly Fred served on the New Richmond Farmers Union Coop Oil Company Board of Directors, 1970-1994, Federal Land Bank Association, Board of Directors 1969-1981, Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service (ACSC) committee member, Knights of Columbus member, and the Immaculate Conception Parish Counsel.

Along with his numerous committee memberships, Fred devoted much of his time to serving both the church and the community. Awards Fred received over the years included: St. Croix County Outstanding Older Adult Award, July 2006, St. Croix County 4-H Project Leader, Honorary Chapter FFA Degree.

Those who knew Fred understood his passion for farming. He spent more than 50 years of his life milking cows, raising swine and growing crops. He was the all-American farmer. Fred also took great interest in the lives of his family. He supported both his children and his grandchildren through many years of 4-H, county fairs and state fairs.

His other hobbies included old time dancing, square dancing, playing cards, vacationing south for the winter, and spending quality time with family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ruth (Walz); children, Dennis (Nancy) Ball, David (Kim) Ball, Jane (Jerry Leverty) Ball, Dale (Julie Vandre) Ball; grandchildren, Kristen Ball, Jenna Ball, Jacob Ball, Dayna Ball; and many caring family and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial was at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, 2009 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, New Richmond with Father James Brinkman officiating. Music provided by organist Barb Peterson and soloist Mary Anderson. Pallbearers were Jacob Ball, Jerry Leverty, Dayrl Orf, Douglas Walz, Jason Raymond, Larry Ball. Visitation was 4-8 p.m. Friday at the Cullen Crea Funeral Home, New Richmond and also one hour prior to the service at the church. Deacon Michael Germain said the prayers at the visitation.

Arrangements by Cullen Crea Funeral Home, 715-246-2667.

Tags: obituary, frederick, ball