Gerald "Jerry" William Ballard

Ballard, Gerald William "Jerry" Minneapolis, Minnesota passed away Wednesday, August 28, 2019 in Edina, Minnesota. He was born on March 26, 1925 in Beatrice to Frank and Mabel (Bateman) Ballard. He graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Nebraska. He was a successful engineer at Armco Steel Corporation for several years. After leaving Armco he started Ballard Supply Company and retired at the age of 90. He was involved in many activities at Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church, enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren, playing bridge, investment club, and many winters in Maui. Jerry always lit up a room with his positive attitude and quick sense of humor! He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him. Jerry was an Army veteran of WWII where he earned the Purple Heart and Combat Infantry Badge.

Jerry is survived by his sister, Loraine Noble; daughters, Jane (Jim) and Barb (Tom Robinson); sons, Bill (Diana), Jim (Sam), Mark (Andrea); grandchildren, Ryan, Jessie, Andrew, Katie, Michael John, Samantha, Johnathan and Drew; Jack and Sam; Tom and Katherine; Steven and Becky; and 10 great- grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his sister, Rosellane Norstadt; his wife of 59 years, Elayne Ballard; and son, Michael Ballard.

Funeral Services will be held Wednesday September 4, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. with visitation 9:00 a.m. at Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Jerry Ballard Memorial Fund to help those in need who are working to complete their educational goals. Washburn-McReavy.com Eden Prairie Chapel 952-975-0400.

Graveside Services will be held at 10:30 AM Friday, September 6, 2019 at Evergreen Home Cemetery in Beatrice with Pastor Mark Schutt officiating. Condolences may be left online at www.harmanwrightmortuary.com. Harman-Wright Mortuary in Beatrice in charge of local arrangements.

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