J.L. Ball

J.L. Ball, age 94, of Kalamazoo, MI passed away December 6, 2016. He was born in 1921 in Silver Lake, Indiana to Argus G. and Nellie Mae Ball. J. L. is survived by his loving wife Doris of 71 years. Together they had five children: James L. (Jane Cerza) Ball, Alexandria, VA, Thomas M. (Mary Elizabeth) Ball, Woodstock, GA, Constance Darlene (John) Ritter, Ocala, FL, Jeffrey L. (Pamela) Ball, Jennison, MI, and Gregory J. (Jeanne) Doonan, Mattawan, MI. He was the proud Grandfather of nine grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. J .L. was a World War II Veteran and served as Staff Sergeant in the 441st Counter Intelligence Corp, U.S. Army. He served in Australia, Goodenough Island, New Guinea and the Philippines. After his discharge from the Army with honors on October 10, 1945, he was eventually employed by Fetzer Broadcasting Company, WKZO Radio, WKZO Television and Fetzer Cablevision for 35 years, retiring in February, 1988 at the age of 68. Throughout his life, J. L. was a member of the First United Methodist Church, and a member of several professional organizations, including, service as President of the Kalamazoo Accountants and Credit Manager's Association. He also served on many community organizations, including as President of Y-Men's Club, Vice-President of WMU Parent's Association, President of Hillside Jr. High PTA, Treasurer of Indian Prairie Elementary School PTA, Treasurer of First United Methodist Church, Charter Member of Eastwood Little League and Treasurer of Westwood Little League. Also, J. L. coached First United Methodist Church youth basketball for 11 years that resulted in three YMCA City Championships. J.L. and his beloved wife, Doris, designed and had built their family home in 1958 and he lived there until his passing. The family will receive visitation at the Langeland Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 South Burdick Street, Kalamazoo, on Sunday, December 11, 2016 from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church, 212 S. Park Street, Kalamazoo, on Monday, December 12, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Following the service and a luncheon at the church, a military burial ceremony will take place at 2:30 p.m. at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First United Methodist Church, 212 S. Park Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49007.