1931-2025
Howard Eugene “Ballsy” Ball, 94, of Punxsutawney, passed away on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at Mulberry Healthcare.
He was born in Worthville, on August 20, 1931, the only child of Howard William Ball and Florence Mildred (Smith) Ball.
On July 1, 1950, he married Ruth E. Vasbinder. He and Ruth were married for seventy-five years and remained steadfast and great companions for one another to the end. She survives and resides in Punxsutawney.
“Ballsy” was hard worker all his life. He began working with the family business, Balls garbage service in the early 60’s -70’s, he then worked for IA Construction as a laborer and a foreman, he later became the owner/operator of the West End Sunoco Station, from which he finally retired. He loved to talk to people as much as he enjoyed working. Lindsey Fire Company made him an honorary member because he enjoyed going to the fire hall to catch up with the guys and have a cup of coffee each morning. He was also a lifetime member of the Loyal Order of Moose Punxsutawney #954.
He enjoyed the sunshine and heat that others often avoided, and he took pride in helping his neighbors by cutting their grass and taking care of little odds and ends for them. For fun, he loved to bowl and belonged to several leagues over the years.
He loved his family, especially the grandkids. Children were naturally drawn to him, because he naturally loved kids and animals. They seemed to sense his fondness and gentle nature, he especially loved his dog that he called his “little buddy” Caesar.
With a warm spirit and a tireless work ethic, he brightened the lives of everyone-and everything-around him.
In addition to his wife Ruth, he is survived by four children, Donna (Robert) Wolfe, Thomas (Denise) Ball, Barbara (Dick) Matthews and Doug Ball, all of Punxsutawney; nine grandchildren, Bryan (Janey) Wolfe, Michelle London, Shawn Ball and fiancé Michele, Daniel Ball, Rick Matthews and fiancé Danielle, Autumn (Jason) Kunselman, Eric (Lisa) Ishman, Holly Archer and Lauren Ball; eleven great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.
Preceded in death by his parents and one granddaughter, Lisa Ball.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no visistation. Arrangements entrusted to Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc., Punxsutawney.
Memorial donations may be made to the Make a Wish Foundation in memory of Lisa Ball, or Lindsey Fire Company or an animal shelter of the donor’s choice.
