James Edward "Jeb" Ball IV

James Edward Ball IV "Jeb", of Eagle River, Wisconsin passed away on March 5, 2026, after a courageous struggle following complications from surgery. Jeb was born on November 4, 1953, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to James Edward Ball III and Mary Frances Ball (nee Featherston). He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Elena L Ball (nee Bryant), daughters Katie Reynolds (Aaron), Melissa Parsons (Shea), sister Tracey Ball, along with five cherished grandchildren, Isaac and Nia Reynolds, and Joey, Jeb, and Frank Parsons. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law Randy Petty.

Jeb loved the Northwoods. His dream was to retire and live on a lake in the woods, which he and Elena realized when they bought their home on the Eagle River chain in 2016. Jeb was an avid golfer and fisherman. A true die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fan, he checked a bucket list desire and attended the 2024 Chiefs victory in Super Bowl LVIII over the 49ers. Nothing brought Jeb greater joy than spending time with his grandchildren as often as he could. Jeb was a gracious and kind host. He and Elena spent many years welcoming family and friends to their home in Des Moines, Iowa. Jeb was a 1971 graduate of Urbandale High school. He enjoyed working as Managing Director of the Midwest division XF Enterprises for 30 years before retiring in 2019. He was a beloved co-worker, mentor and boss, counting himself blessed to have many friends and colleagues.

Jeb had a rare and genuine gift for making people feel important. He was an exceptional listener who had a sincere interest in others' lives. Jeb was a gifted storyteller and had a sense of humor that was second to none. More than anything, Jeb simply loved his friends and family, and they loved him right back. He will be deeply and profoundly missed.

A Service of Remembrance will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Iles Westover Chapel 6337 Hickman Road, Des Moines, Iowa. A visitation will be conducted from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM prior to the service and a light meal will be served on a come and go basis. After the service, there will be an Open House with a time for storytelling at Melissa Parson's home located at 692 44th Street in Des Moines. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com. Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel.