John Ballard, 71

John Wayne Ballard, age 71, passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2015 at the Bronson Hospice House in Battle Creek. He was born on April 19th, 1944 in Sturgis, MI. the son of the late Jesse and Geraldine (Hendricks) Ballard.

Mr. Ballard served his country in the United States Navy before his honorable discharge and later in the Army National Guard for many years. He was employed by Essex Wire and later XL Machine Corp. before his retirement. John was a member of the American Legion Hice-Shutes Post #170.

He is survived by his loving family, one daughter, Jody Collins, of Battle Creek, MI.; three sons, John Jr., of Leola, PA., James (Krissy), of Three Rivers, and Jerry (Billie) Ballard of Charlotte, N.C.; two brothers, Mike and Robert “Bob” Ballard; ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place and graveside services will be held at Riverside Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2015 with Pastor Bob Anderson officiating.  Military honors will be conducted under the auspices of the American Legion Post # 150. Arrangements by the Hohner Funeral Home.