Bob Ballard Obituary

Alva J. Ballard, Jr.

Alva Jackson "Bob" Ballard, Jr., 75, of West Chicago, went to be with the Lord on August 31st with his family holding his hand. He was born in Madill, OK, the son of Alva "Bud" and Gladys (Holbrook) Ballard.

Bob came to Illinois in 1958 and married Violet Shelton. The couple moved to El Paso, TX where Bob served two years in the army. Then they moved back to Illinois where they raised four beautiful daughters. Bob had many wonderful memories of family vacations driving to Madill with Vi by his side and the girls packed in the back seat. Bob loved his wife and daughters and could not wait to show them off.

Then in 1995, he got someone else to show off - his awesome grandson, Josh. They had great times together and Bob was so proud of Josh's achievements. Oh, he loved that boy! Then in 2003, Bob got his gorgeous granddaughter, Sophie. He flew to California just so he could hold her. He always said that she gave the best hugs of anyone. What a love!

Bob is survived by his wife, Violet; daughter, June Renee and husband Shelby; daughter, Kimberly Ann; daughter, Lisa Marie; grandson, Joshua John Jackson; granddaughter, Sophia Rose; sister-in-law, Mary Etta; brother, John and wife Carole; and his wonderful extended family throughout Oklahoma and Texas.

He was preceded in death by daughter, Sherri Lynn; sister, Sarah Helen and husband Carl; and brother, Bill. We know he is dancing with them all.

We will sorely miss Bob - his humor, laugh, keen insight, strength, the twinkle in his eyes, his love.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday afternoon September 20th at his home from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.