Richard Ballard

Richard "Dick" Henry Ballard passed away on July 9, 2011 in Sun City West, AZ. He was born in Los Angeles, California on November 23, 1924 to Sylvester Ballard and Wilma Morel. He grew up and attended schools in the Los Angeles area. After graduating from high school he enlisted in the US Army serving in the Army Air Corps during WWII. Following his military service he returned and married Elaine Klaisner on February 2, 1946. He began working as a telephone engineer with Interstate of California, working first in Bishop and later moving to Apple Valley. The company eventually became Verizon. He retired in the 1980's after 40 years of service, moving to Aguila in 1986. Richard enjoyed traveling and had traveled extensively in the western United States with his wife and his daughters and grandchildren. He also enjoyed Nascar racing and had participated in many Car Rallies winning numerous awards for Rally Racing. He really enjoyed his parrot "Roscoe" and caring for him. Richard is survived by his wife Elaine of Aguila, children Dody Schediwy of Rio Vista, TX, Nancy Waltz of Aguila, grandchildren, Wendy King, Amanda Geyer (Patrick), Austin Allen, Kama Waltz, Andrea Sidman, Cody Waltz, Jonathan Pollack and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his infant children Kathleen and Richard, also brother Robert S. Ballard. Funeral services for Richard will be held Monday, July 18, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Wickenburg, AZ, with Pastor Ed Wessling officiating.