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Robert Ball Obituary
Bob was born on August 24th, 1954. He grew up on Long Plain road in Leverett, Massachusetts. In 1972 he joined the U.S. Navy, serving our country and traveling the world for four years.
In 1981 he married Janet Claire Koester, and the following year they had their only child Amanda. He was dedicated to his job at Amherst College, where he worked for 40 years. In the spring, summer and fall, he was the Superintendent of Athletic Grounds; in the winter months he managed Orr Rink. Bob retired in 2016.
In January 2017, Janet passed away, and one of her last requests was that Bob focus on getting healthy so that he could enjoy his retirement. He started walking miles every day and changed his diet. By spring 2018 he was hiking Mt. Monadnock and the Holyoke Range.
Many were not aware that Bob spent the last year of his life fighting cancer. He would not want the people that loved him to remember him that way. Last summer was filled with kayak trips, hikes and a new scooter. He enjoyed the time he had and he would not want anyone to mope around for too long because of his passing. Remember him for his smile, good heart and positive outlook on life.
A celebration to honor and remember him will be held at some point in the future.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Ball
Lee Holliday
April 29, 2021
Dear Amanda, your father was a great childhood friend in Leverrett. It was funny to learn of the scooter. Bob had a scooter when he was 14 and taught me to ride it. He offered not sell it to me. My father came over to Bob's house to see how well I could ride. Bob had taught me well. I jumped and spun the scooter in the dirt. My Dad did not purchase the scooter. Mny years later, I asked my Dad why and he said that after seeing me do all of those tricks, he was sure I would surely seriously hurt myself. It did not pay to show off so much. Your father was one of the people I was hoping to see Bob arbour 50th HS Reunion. I believe we will meet again in that better place. My deepest condolences to you. Lee Holliday
Amanda Ball
October 2, 2020
I forgot to add anything about my dad’s love of golf! Or the many friends he made over the years of playing. I will never forget the countless rounds I tagged along with him or the many rounds I would attempt to play along. Or the clubs I saw wizzing through the air! He could definitely be gruff, and he didn’t hold back when he had something to say!
I just wanted to take a minute to say thank you for all your kind thoughts about my dad!
~Amanda
jackie bagwell
June 12, 2020
Bob could come off gruff, but he had a big heart. He love to tell a story and wasn't shy about embellishing. I remember having a flat on the bike trail, One of those days when you feel like you dont have a friend in the world. I called Bob and he threatened to come on the lawnmower but he came in his truck and he took care of me❤
Carl Vigeland
June 5, 2020
Many great times shared at the golf course and hockey rink! Sending love and sympathy to you, Amanda. Your dad loved life and that feeling was something he shared with all his many friends. I will miss him!
Sue Bristol
June 5, 2020
I am so sad to hear of his passing, he was a wonderful guy,, he will be missed by many.I shared many fond memories with Bobby..❤
Deborah Campbell
June 3, 2020
Dear Amanda,
I am so sorry for your tremendous loss of your family. I am glad that you were able to be with him. My heart is with you.
With love,
Deborah Campbell
Margie Sobil
June 2, 2020
He was a really great guy and will be sorely missed. He always found a way to see the positive in any situation. Margie
Jamie Clark Fitzgibbon
May 30, 2020
When my Dad worked for the WMECO, Bobby and my Dad were good coffee buddies. I reconnected with Bobby later in life when I was a vendor for Amherst College. I remember how funny and welcoming he was. Thanks for sharing your Dad with the world.
John Edwards
May 30, 2020
Bob was such a nice guy, so hard to understand how sometimes life can be so sad and unfair. It was a pleasure knowing you Bob and running into you at Cumbies.
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