Orville J. Ballewske

Orville J. Ballewske, age 81, passed away Sunday, March 2, 2014 at his residence. Orville was born in Racine, March 17, 1932, son of the late Gustav and Florence (Nee: McGee) Ballewske.

On June 29, 1968 in Illinois he was united in marriage to Alice M. Woolsey. Orville was employed by the City of Racine Department of Public Works for thirty years, retiring, March 19, 1990. He was a previous member and acolyte at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church, and actively involved in Local 67 AFSCME. Orville was active for many years at the Y.M.C.A. and enjoyed his friends in the aquacizing class. He also enjoyed playing the piano and organ and was a huge fan of NASCAR. Above all it was his family that gave him the most joy, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be deeply missed.

Survivors include his loving wife of forty-five years, Alice; his children, Deb (Dan) Baran of Racine, Dennis (Kim) Ballewske of Findlay, OH, Kevin (Lori) Ballewske of Racine; his nine grandchildren, Talia (Ricky) Prince, Cassidy Baran, Shainan (Alex) Carbajal, Dana (Angie) Ballewske, Kayla (Cody) Pepper, Ashley Ballewske, Tehren Vara, Nadina (Justin) Benson, Trista Ballewske; sixteen great-grandchildren with another due in June; 2 sisters-in-law, Barbara Linnemann, Shirley Ulrich; brother-in-law, Larry (Mary) Woolsey; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two children, John and Cheryl Lynn; and by his brother, Glenn.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 6, 2014, 6:00 P.M. at the funeral home with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating. Private interment will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery, Hwy 32. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Thursday at the funeral home from 4:00 P.M. until time of service at 6:00 P.M. Memorials to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Outreach Program or to the Y.M.C.A. have been suggested.