passed away peacefully at Joliet Area Community Hospice Home with his family by his side, Wednesday, May 2, 2018. Age 77 years. Survived by his wife of 51 years Drue Ballard (nee Craig), daughter Kimberly Hertzmann, two sons Mark (Jina) Ballard and Michael (Jillissa) Ballard. Seven grandchildren Joshua (Jenny-fiance') Hertzmann, Jacob Hertzmann, Cora (Dax) Eckard, Charles Eckard, Makayla Coffey, Abigail Ballard and Paige (Josh) Lunceford. A great-grandson Nash. Two sisters Sandra (Robert) Stierman and Susan (Anthony) Askea. His sister-in-law Pattylynn Ballard. Also numerous nieces and nephews survive. Preceded in death by his parents Galen V. and Jeanette M. Ballard, and his brother Randy Ballard. Ron was born February 16, 1941 in Rockford, IL. Graduate of Rockford East High School. Veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps., serving in the Vietnam War. Ron was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for multiple wounds received in combat. He was also awarded Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, two Good Conduct Medal's and the National Defense Medal. Ron retired from Illinois Bell Telephone Co. in 1990. An active member of Westminster Presbyterian Church where he has served as Treasurer for over 20 years, Elder of the church, Men's Club, Bible Study and editor of the church newletter. Former member of the J.T.H.S. Central Band Parents organization. The Ballard family would like to thank Joliet Area Community Hospice Staff for their care and compassion during Ron's journey. Memorial services will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1015 Winthrop Ave., Monday, May 7th at 11:00 A.M. Rev. Matt Robinson officiating. Private inurnment will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with full military honors. Memorials to Westminster Presbyterian Church or Joliet Area Community Hospice will be appreciated. Visitation will be held at church Monday from 9:00 A.M. until services at 11:00 A.M.