Eugene Loran Ball

NINE MILE – Eugene Loran Ball, 68, passed away at his home on Thursday, Jan. 10, 2013, in Nine Mile surrounded by his family and critters.

Gene was a gentle man (big heart and size) but he never met a stranger. He and his Orchard Homes buddies Ben, Chuck, Dennis, Wayne, Dick and my cousin Bob loved the hills and rivers and skipped school to explore. Every day in the hills or on the river was a great day.

Gene married Geri Ball in 1965. Steven and Stacey Ball were born. Gene worked at Horner Waldorf for 39 years.

Steve and Stacey's friends loved to chat with Gene about hunting, fishing, gold panning (as if they really had a choice). Just New Year's Eve the plan was to go panning with the grandkids.

Gene had a hard time retiring but the Oiler Shack buddies Dick, Randy, Pat, Allen and Davey kept him in the gossip.

Gene and Geri have two sons, Steven and his children, Nickolas and Natasha of Nine Mile, and Stacey and his children, Gage and Jacob in Florence, whom all loved seeing Papa at their sports events. He is also survived by brother Alan Ball and family; nieces and nephews, Alanna, Ashley, Kelly, Johnathan, Clyde and Cindy Howard and family, Ed Johnson and Jennifer Johnson, Mike Johnson and LaMonica, Alyssa, Mia (Papa's special Angel), Tyson, Dakota, Ivory, Isabelle and Richard Daniels and Dallas; uncles and aunts, Jake and Elenor Ball, Bud and Annie Wilcox, and special cuz Rod Cindy Cone.

Many have made Gene's final year memorable: Andy, Nickole, Lilly, the Blom family (visits with the girls on leave) Troy, Troy Jr., Justin, Pat Spence, Eula and Brit.

We all loved Gene in our own way and will really miss him because we all know we're never ready to say goodbye.

Memorial in Nine Mile come spring!

"Lord, as if on eagles wings we come to you to pray, to ask for your special blessing for those within your care.

Send our throubles soaring, Lord, and fill our hearts with joy and hope that no one can destroy." - Shirley Anderson.

Cremation and Burial Society of the Rockies are assisting the family with arrangements.

Read Eugene Ball's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.