Donald Ballance

COBDEN, Ill. -- Donald Dean Ballance, 76, of Cobden died suddenly Saturday, Aug. 20, 2005, at his home on Skyline Drive.

He was born July 4, 1929, at Wolf Lake, Ill., son of Louie E. and Gustia Lowe Ballance. He and Faye Lamer were married Dec. 8, 1950, in Murphysboro, Ill. She preceded him in death Aug. 22, 2000.

Donald was educated and graduated from Wolf Lake High School, and after graduation worked for the railroad, and then served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.

He returned to Cobden where he received an associate degree in electronics. He later owned and operated a hardware and television repair store in Cobden before becoming an electrician at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, where he retired.

Donald was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, member of American Legion Post 259, Village of Cobden Planning Board, Lions Club, all in Cobden, and Carroll P. Foster VFW Post 3455 in Anna, Ill.

He was a promoter of and instrumental in the building of Cobden Park. During the past few years he helped in the management of Big Muddy River Hunting Club with his nephew, Dennis Ballance.

Survivors include a special friend, Pat Bridwell of Anna; a brother, Eugene and wife Dortha Ballance of Anna; three sisters, Peggy and husband Jack Schwartz of Makanda, Ill., Elizabeth "Mickey" and husband Bill Tweedy, Kittie and husband Larry Yates of Cobden; two sisters-in-law, Mary Ballance of Wolf Lake, Niecy Forby and husband Homer of Cobden; many close nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; loving stepmother, Kittie; wife, Faye; two brothers, Paul and Dorris Ballance; and two infant sisters, Wilma and Patty.

Donald lived his life to the fullest and most people knew him through his friendliness, love and whistling. Donald was well known and highly respected by those who knew him. He will be sorely missed by the community.

Friends may call at Lutz and Rendleman Funeral Home in Cobden today until time of service.

The funeral will be at 2 p.m. today at the funeral home, with the Rev. Anette Westermark officiating. Burial will be in Cobden Cemetery with full military honors by VFW Post 3455.

Memorials may be made to Cobden Park or First Presbyterian Church of Cobden. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.