Carl Ball Jr.

Carl Ball, Jr.

March 5, 1934 - Feb. 18, 2024

CHARLESTON - Carl Ball, Jr., a cherished husband, devoted father, beloved grandfather, and proud great-grandfather, peacefully passed away in his sleep on Sunday, February 18, 2024, at Autumn Leaves of Savoy in Savoy, IL.

He was born on March 5, 1934, in Chicago, IL, to the late Carl and Anna Adele (Sedalik) Ball. On September 11, 1954, Carl married the love of his life, Edna Williams, in Chicago, IL. Together, they shared an extraordinary journey spanning 69 years, filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Edna Ball of Charleston, IL; daughters: Patty Spence (Dan) of Charleston, IL, and Donna Kauffman (Kurt) of Colleyville, TX; son, Carl Ball III (Cathy) of Charleston, IL; grandchildren: Zac Trelz (Madi Dailey) of Charleston, IL, Caro Reeves (Tyler) of Denton, TX, Lincoln Kauffman of Austin, TX, Quinn Kauffman of Colleyville, TX, Kady Ball of Urbana, IL, Molly Ball of Columbus, OH, Carl Ball (Rachita Vasan) of Portland, OR, Madison Bays (Andy) of Charleston, IL, and Wade Spence (Christina) of Charleston, IL; great-grandchildren: Trey Bays, Parker Bays, Brooks Bays, and Jack Trelz, all of Charleston, IL; step-grandchildren: Heather Drake (Mike) of Clanton, AL, and Travis Spence of Charleston, IL; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Derk and Anton Ball.

Carl was a man of many accomplishments and interests. He graduated from Calumet High School in Chicago, IL, in 1952. It was during his high school years that he met Edna, marking the beginning of a lifelong love story. Following graduation, Carl honorably served his country in the Army after the Korean War, operating heavy equipment crucial for construction projects.

His entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic were evident from a young age. From selling golf balls collected at Evergreen Park Golf Course to managing contracts for lighting kerosene lamps, Carl's determination and diligence were unmatched. His commitment to community service, exemplified by his garbage collection initiatives and volunteer work.

After his military service, Carl worked in waste management, eventually founding Kleenwel Disposal in 1968 and ERC Landfill in 1980, a pioneering endeavor in environmental reclamation. His dedication to innovation and community betterment left an indelible mark on those around him.

Carl attended First Baptist Church in Charleston and an active Shriner. He found joy in overcoming challenges and creating memorable experiences, such as helping transform his parent's yard into a winter skating rink for neighborhood children.

In retirement, Carl and Edna embraced adventure, enjoying excursions on their hovercraft along the Wabash River and hosting gatherings at their Florida home. Carl found solace in nature, relishing moments spent hunting, fishing, and skiing; with many hours spent at their cabin on the Embarrass River. His generosity knew no bounds, as seen in his tradition of distributing pens with his name during doctor's visits.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to honor Carl's memory.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children-St. Louis or the donor's preferred charity.

To share condolences, light a candle, or post photos in memory of Carl Ball, please visit www.adamsfuneralchapel.com.

Adams Funeral Chapel of Charleston, IL, is entrusted with the arrangements.