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Richard A. "Ric" Ballin
Richard A. "Ric" Ballin
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Richard Ballin Obituary
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Jane Terry Ballin
August 25, 2022
Ric was my beloved husband, partner in crime, and soul mate, and I was incredibly blessed to share 25 years of my life with him. I miss him every day.
Thank you to everyone who wrote, sharing loving memories, offering words of comfort, and carrying him forward. "He saw not with the eyes, but the heart." I loved him so. Fare thee well, dear boy.
Your loving wife,
Jane
Jane Terry Ballin
August 25, 2022
Jane Terry Ballin
August 25, 2022
Ric was my beloved husband, partner in crime, and soul mate. I was incredibly blessed to share 25 years of my life with him. I still miss him with all of my heart. Thank you to all of you who shared your memories and offered words of loving comfort. ""He saw not with the eyes, but with the heart." Love you always, dearest "boy!"
Your loving wife,
Jane
Barbara Hines
July 10, 2022
Ric was an Inspiration for World Peace with his beautiful and heart moving slide shows of Russia. He was gentle, joyful and kind and served the world with every step he took. Everyone who knew him was blessed!
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Mark Nelson
February 19, 2011
It was the end of a long search for my friend Rick. We were friends at Arizona Western College. His wit and thoughts have inspired me as well as my loyalty to the Green Bay Packers. I was fortunate to visit him in Santa Barbara just before leaving for the Air Force. I have always wanted to touch base with him, and my learning of his death has come with a shock. My prayers for his family..and thanks to God for allowing Rick to touch my heart! God Bless you Rick!
Barbara Ballin
September 11, 2009
To everyone who wrote: I was so moved by all your responses and outpouring of love and warmth. It's wonderful to see how many students and friends Ric had that cared so deeply. It means so much to me and my family to read all these lovely responses. Thank you.
Barbara
Terry
August 25, 2009
Ric was a dear friend from our days in Yuma. Will miss him.
Fran Wheeler
August 4, 2009
Dear Jane,
I was so saddened to hear of Ric's death. He made such an impact on so many people during the period when he was involved in the Appleton Sister's City Project. It was always obvious to those of us who worked with him that Ric was a very gentle and caring soul. I know he will be remembered with much love by all of those he touched. May his love for you Jane help you to get through this very difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Barbara and Bedford Hines
August 2, 2009
To Jane and to Ric's family
We are deeply sorry to hear of Ric's passing. He was a great inspiration for peace on our planet when he created multi-media slide shows of the Soviet Union for the Fox Cities-Kurgan Sister City Program. He traveled to the Soviet Union with the program and brought back his insightful and personal pictures of the Soviet people and shared them in the Peace Concert and with groups all over this area. He showed us what real brotherhood and unity looks like.
We will keep you in our prayers, Barbara and Bedford Hines
Jason Block
July 30, 2009
Hi Pastor Jane,
Lacey and I were so sorry to hear about your loss. I hope you know how much we care about you and love you... you're in our thoughts and prayers.
chan pink
July 28, 2009
Many condolences to the family. I am so sorry for your loss. Know that God cares and provides comfort in His word the Bible. Passages like John5:28,29 are truly encouraging. May it comfort you.
Luke Bocher
July 27, 2009
Dear Jane,
So sorry to hear about Ric's death. My heart goes out to you on this tragic and heart-breaking loss.
You're in my prayers today,
Luke Bocher
July 27, 2009
Dear Edith and Bob,
My deepest sympathy at Ric's passing.
My heart goes out to you; he will be in my prayers.
Greg Morrison
Madeleine Kuenn
July 22, 2009
Mr. Ballin was a favorite teacher of mine. I couldn't and wouldn't believe it when he passed away, but I know he is always with us, and will never, ever be forgotten. Mr Ballin was so funny, and taught my World Cultures class last year with much wisdom and energy. When he played in the orchestra for the musical this year I was overjoyed.
Whenever I was having a bad day, I could always count on Mr Ballin to help out. We even shared an imaginary friend "Brutis" who was the cause of all our problems. Brutis and I will miss Mr Ballin so much, and never forget him.
p.s. Brutis says sorry for picking on you, Mr. Ballin
Norbert Badler
July 20, 2009
Dear Edith and Bob,We are so sorry to of your son's untimely passing.Our deepest sympathy to you and your family, Lore & Norbert Badler, Deerfield, Il.
Joseph Piersen
July 20, 2009
Edith and Bob,
Marge and I are so sorry to hear about Ric's death.
At Cardiac grooup today we discussed it and hope to do something. As I was about to email Lucy Port, who used to work with us, I told her also. When Ric died, I was down in southern Illinois doing railroad research, so my response was delayed.
Joe Piersen
Marcia Jacobs
July 20, 2009
Dear Edith and Bob,
I was so sorry to hear about your son's passing. My sympathies and heart goes out to you. You are in my thoughts with love.
Marcia Jacobs
Tom Fiffer
July 20, 2009
Dear Ballins,
I was so sorry to hear of Ric's untimely passing. I know there are no words that can console, nothing one can say to ease your pain. I can say, having lost a family member myself many years ago, that I have some understanding of how you feel, and I offer you all my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy. Please know that you are in my thoughts and in my heart.
Tom Fiffer
July 20, 2009
Ric was so beloved at Hamilton! I told him if I'd had kids, I would have wanted him as their teacher. I felt a kinship with him right away since I am from Santa Barbara too, and he was always there for me throughout personal or work related stresses. He truly was an angel. He will be terribly missed. My (our) prayers are with you. Sincerely, Cynthia (& Jonathan) Romain
Rev. Harvey Kandler
July 19, 2009
Dear Jane:
We have read and heard of your husband's death. We thank God for his photography and influence with students at various levels of education.
May the wholeness that he did not have that ended his life be found in the Creator God and our Lord Jesus Christ who brings wholeness to each of us.
May this One who is our life, hope, and love give you strength and hope as you mourn.
May His comfort remind you of what you have preached, that God has the last word, which is RESURRECTION!!
Know that our Lord not only sheds tears with us, but helps to wipe away tears from those who are grieving
because He is the Eternal Easter for each of us.
May this Jesus hold you in His arms so that as you weep you are made whole by Him.
We send our love ad prayers and look back with goodness during the time you were in the Fox Valley. We are now members of First Congregational Church in our retirement.
The Rev. Harvey & Nancy Kandler
Kaukauna, Wisconsin
Kathy Bronk
July 19, 2009
I was very saddened to read of Ric's passing. I knew him and Rev. Jane casually through their volunteering with the Fox Valley Humane Association. He was a very talented, giving man and will be missed. His photographs and our memories of him will live on. My sincerest condolences.
Carol Maumee Maumee
July 18, 2009
Dear Jane,
We were saddened to hear of Ric's passing. Please know that I truly meant what I said at the Memorial today in regard to offering comfort in the way of walks, etc. I am very sensitive to one's personal privacy. We walk the dogs frequently and it could merely be you joining us as we walk up town and have a cup of coffee.
You will be in our thoughts.
Sincerely,
Carol and George Maumee
Michael Krupelak
July 17, 2009
Mr. Ballin was a great friend, mentor and teacher. I had him for advisment and he was the greatest man ever to have for that. He was the man that inspired me to be who I am today. I am so happy that he was in my life. It was a complete shock to hear that he passed away. He had a kind and gentle soul that I enjoyed everyday I saw him. He taught me a lot. Thank you for being a great teacher, mentor and friend. He will be missed by a whole lot of students that he touched.
Cathy Egan
July 17, 2009
I was saddened to hear of Ric's passing. I grew up with Ricky, as we all called him then, in Northfield, IL. We both attended Sunset Ridge School and New Trier West. Our last meeting was at our 10th high school reunion. I'm not surprised at the accomplishments Ric achieved in his life. In reading this quest book, I can see what a inspiration he was to so many. My condolences go out to the entire family.
Kent and Vicki Kessler-Sandstrom
July 17, 2009
We were deeply saddened to hear the news of Ric's death. We were fortunate enough to be friends of Ric and Jane during their time in Appleton, WI. It was a delight to be around them, particularly because of the love and respect they had for one another. We will always remember Ric for his gentle heart, his wonderful sense of humor, and his playful spirit. Jane, please know that you are in our thoughts during this time of grief and sorrow.
Sarah Wilkerson
July 17, 2009
His cheerful attitude brightened the hallways of my high school. He was a blessing to many and will surely be missed.
Paul Fitzgibbon
July 17, 2009
Before the age of computers I did free-lance work for Ric as a photo retoucher, he was a joy to work with and always ready with a compliment. When he changed careers I did lose track of him, my condolences to all family and friends.
Dan Densow
July 17, 2009
Jane:
We are so sorry to learn of your loss. Even though at a time like this, words are far from adequate, please know that you are in our prayers. May your memories of Ric live on in your heart and mind forever!
Joe Durica
July 17, 2009
He taught me all that I know about taking good photographs. I would go to him with some pictures that I took on family trips out west. He would tell me what I could do with them and how to make them even better next time. He really helped me alot when it came to taking the best photographs that I can. Also seeing him in the Pit Orchestra at school was fun. He made the band laugh and was really dedicated to the music. He was a great person and will always be remembered. We will miss you, Mr. Ballin.
Laura Wojcehowicz
July 17, 2009
Ric was a special man from a special place. Ricky Ballin was our friend from grade school at Sunset Ridge School in Northfield, Il. It's wonderful to know he was able to share his unique talents with so many people during his lifetime and incorporate some of the teaching style and passion we experienced as children into his career in education. I offer my condolences to his family.
Laura Phinney (Wojcehowicz)
Whitney Zahn
July 17, 2009
I was saddened to hear about Mr. Ballin's passing. Although I never had a class taught by Mr. Ballin at Hamilton High School, I was fortunate enough to get to know him though his support of the theater department. He was always seen with a smile on his face and full of energy and enthusiasm. My heartfelt condolences go to the Ballin family.
Gina Philippi
July 16, 2009
I cannot express how stunned and saddened I was to learn of his passing. His presence was so strong and full of life that it is hard to fathom anything different. I never had the privilege of having Mr. Ballin as a teacher, but I did receive the honor of playing horn alongside him in the 2007 and 2009 Hamilton High School Drama Department's musicals. Accompanied with his passion for music, Mr. Ballin's amazing sense of humor and glowing personality helped make those long nights spent in the "pit of despair" absolutely the best weeks of the school year. After the musical was over, he gave me a sound-filled thank you card for playing with him. The card's cheerful shouts may have embodied his personality perfectly, but I should have been the one giving thanks. Simply being in his presence him was an inspiration to become a better horn player and a better person. His memory will live on in that card, every horn I pick up, and my heart forever.
My deepest sympathies to his wife and the rest of the Ballin family;
With love,
Gina Mae Philippi
Darcie Adams
July 16, 2009
Mr. Ballin was an excellent teacher and a wonderful friend to student. He played in the pit orchestra with my friends and I and I can't express how much of a loss he is to our community and Hamilton High. You will be missed, Mr. Ballin.
Frosty Newton (Paone)
July 16, 2009
I haven't seen Ricky since eighth grade, but will always remember him as a very sweet guy. My prayers go out to his family.
Sincerely,
Frosty
Matthew McGuire
July 16, 2009
We were so shocked and saddened about Mr. Ballin's passing. I was a student in Mr. Ballin's digital photography class this summer. He was so full of life and was very supportive. I really liked his optimism and kindness. I wish I was able to know him more than 4 weeks. But, I feel very lucky to have known him. He will be missed by all the students---especially me.
Judy Block
July 16, 2009
We got to meet Ric through his wife, Pastor Jane, who served the church we used to attend. Pastor Jane was instrumental in bringing about some incredible and wonderful changes in the lives of people who are very close to us, and we are forever in her debt for that gift. As members of Pastor Jane's congregation, we were privileged on occasion to have Ric share his artistic talents with us. I particularly remember seeing his beautiful slide presentation on Christmas Eve. We enjoyed his presentations, and found him to be a wonderful, caring, and talented man.
We are holding Jane in our hearts and pray that God grant her the comfort and peace she so often gave to others.
Bud & Judy Block & Family
Perrian Jordan
July 16, 2009
To the Ballin Family
I am musical friend of Peter's,I'd like to give my condolences to one and all family members. May GOD bless and keep you.And to Peter,celebrate your brother's accomplishments, for he too has shared his gifts with many whom inspires.
July 16, 2009
I am so sad to see of Ric's passing. I remeber Ric very well as his math teacher. He was always a hard worker and I see that has carried on in his life. I am pleased to see how well he did as a teacher and I can see from some of the comments in his guest book, he will be sorely missed. My sympathies to the Ballin family.
Denny Morys
Jim Waniorek
July 16, 2009
Mr.Ballin was and is a one of a kind man. I was lucky enough to have him as a teacher for 4 years. Mr Ballin was the type of teacher that could make you laugh when you were sad an could gain control of the class room when it was time to settle down. For some reason i can remember alot more times of him making us all laugh and enjoy learning. Sussex Hamilton lost a very big piece of the puzzle that will never be able to be replaced. THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES MR BALLIN AND FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE TO MAKE ME WHO I AM TODAY.
Katherine Kuhlman
July 16, 2009
Mr Ballin was a great man. and teacher! he was the one that inspired me to take up photography. and he showed me to express my feelings in my storys i wrote im his class. i could talk to him about everything like things that frustrated me or my sadness in life. and every time i went in his class room it felt like home. i will miss him vary much. He was the best teacher ever.
linda brown
July 16, 2009
Dear Ballin family, It was wonderful being neighbors growing up in Northfield, and such a treat to walk over to visit and be surrounded by the music and beauty in your home. At one point when we were little ,my life's aspiration (partly credited to my dear friend Barbara and her family) was to be a professional musician. My love to you all.
Christina becker
July 16, 2009
he was a great friend and mentor! He was amazing man and put up with alot of BS from students..I will miss him dearly! he was a great great man! he was an an awesome teacher!!!
Love Christina Rodeghier (becker)
class of 2001
July 16, 2009
I was very sorry to hear of Ric's passing. My sympathies to Barbara and all her family for their loss. Your classmate from years gone by, Pamela Reedy DiPrima
Meredith Wheeler
July 16, 2009
Last time I saw Ric was at a New Trier High School reunion--and I was so delighted to see that he was a successful photographer. He and I were classmates in elementary school at Sunset Ridge School and even back then he was always a very gentle, kind person.
My sincere sympathy to his family and loved ones at this untimely passing.
--Meredi Wheeler, Lautrec, FRANCE
Katy & Steve Rodberg
July 16, 2009
We are so sorry to hear of Ric's passing. If there is anything we can do to help, please let us know. Ric will be especially missed by Snickers who would always be so happy to get a kind word and a pat on the head from him. Your neighbors, Steve, Katy, Mary & Snickers Rodberg
Danielle Pfeifer
July 16, 2009
Mr. Ballin was a wonderful teacher to have. He always helped his students and made us feel important. i'll never forget all the times he would "disrupt" the other class to see if we wanted to watch his history movies or try and tell a funny joke. He will be greatly missed by many of his students.
Donna Veal
July 16, 2009
Ric was my son's advisor during this last school year(Zach's Freshman year). Ric was warm and thoughtful and sincerely concerned about my son's well-being; knowing him was a blessing. Zach will never forget his advisor, friend, and number one fan. Neither will I. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ric's family and friends.
Kaitlyn Westemeier
July 16, 2009
Ric was one of the most amazing men I have ever met and made a huge impact on my life. You will forever be a part of the great things I do with my life and an inspiration to strive for more!
July 16, 2009
To The Family of Mr. Ballin:
He will be greatly missed. He was a very caring and understanding person and teacher. He was always there whenever anyone needed his help and guidance. Tim will greatly miss him. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. The Rebensburg family
Mary-Ellen Crandall
July 16, 2009
Ric touched the lives of everyone he knew and will be dearly missed.
May the memories you shared be the treasures you hold in your heart.
My sympathies to you and your family.
Debi Brook
July 16, 2009
To the family of Mr. Ballin, We are extremely grateful for the care and compassion Ric gave his students at HHS. The success of these students is in great part of the many teachers that give the time, care and patience that motivates, and establishes self esteem. Thank you Mr. Ballin for being a part of the team. As for our family 4 years after graduation I still loved to stop by to say Hi, I will miss the conversations and genuine care you showed our family not only in being a part of our son's education, but also in caring when our daughter became ill. This will be a huge void in the halls at HHS but may every one remember we are only here for a short time. Mr Ballin has been called to his heavenly home as much as we shelfishly want to have him here. He truly was blessed to have done so much while with us. Now we must give him to our Lord who has called him to his heavenly home. Thank you to Mr. Ballin for all, Thank you to the family for sharing this wonderful man with the students he so dearly cared for. May God give you peace in knowing time will heal your loss.
Our sympathies,
Jeff, Debi, Chris & Lissa Brook
July 16, 2009
My prayers are with the family of Mr. Ballin. He was my daughter's favorite teacher at Hamilton Sussex and we were so shocked to hear of his passing. He was such a wonderful person and kept us informed of my daughters achievements. Mr. Ballin stayed after school with my daughter on the last day of school to make sure she had done everything right. He will be truly, truly missed. Be encouraged Mrs. Ballin because you'll see him again.
Mrs. P. Burt
Eric Schulz
July 16, 2009
I will forever miss my dearest friend. Ric was a wonderful listener, musician, comedian, and true human being who loved everyone and was loved by everyone. He inspired me to feel alive and to live life with a smile on my face always. I am honored to have played the french horn with him and to have shared our love of music and of life together. I offer my love to Jane and everyone who knew Ric as I have known him. His music will play on in my heart forever. God bless you Ric, you will always be remembered and loved.
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N84 W17937 Menomonee Ave., Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
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