Bobby R. Ballard

Bobby R. Ballard, age 77 of Midland died Saturday at Stratford Village. The son of the late Birtle B. and Lucy Belle (Rhymes) Ballard was born on March 18, 1934 in Bartow, Florida, moving to Midland at the age 12 graduating from Midland High School in 1952. He served with the Marines during the Korean Conflict. Bobby attended Bay City Jr. College and graduated from Saginaw Valley with a BA. On October 27, 1956 he married the former Janice Kay Good in Midland. Bobby worked for the Dow Chemical Co. as a Distribution Manager for 35 years, retiring in 1986. He then worked for the Q. O. of Great Lakes Chemical, retiring in 1995. Bobby was a member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir. In his early years he sang with the Men of Music, and in several Barber Shop Groups. He was an avid sports enthusiast, both in watching and playing. Bobby was a member of the Midland Exchange Club and the Toastmasters.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Janice Kay Ballard
Daughters: Laurie (Douglas) Hanes of Stockton, CA
Pamela Ballard Stockton, CA
Kathy Ballard Aurora, IL
Tracie Miller Midland
Granddaughters Kristen, Katie, Chelsea, Ashley and grandson Bobby
Brother: Kenneth (Vera "Betty") Ballard of Frostproof, FL
Sister-in-law Mary (Good) Farmer
Several nieces and nephews

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 am Friday, June 17, 2011 from the Wilson MILLER Funeral Home with the Rev. Mark Miller officiating. Interment will be in Midland Cemetery. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Thursday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 and on Friday from 10:00 am until time of service. Memorials may be offered to Aldersgate United Methodist Church.