Lyle Craig Ballew

Lyle Craig Ballew, 85, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 20, 2025.

Lyle was born in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1940 to Richard and Sarah Ballew. He was the youngest of four boys. After migrating to Oregon, he grew up in the tiny hamlet of Oak Grove, a suburb of Milwaukie.

After high school, he enlisted in the United States Army as a radio operator. Upon the end of his first enlistment, he transitioned into the United States Coast Guard, the service he was most proud of.

In 1968, he met Jean Shores, fell in love and married the same year.

In 1971, Lyle and Jean moved to Merlin, Oregon, where they have resided since.

Lyle operated heavy equipment for numerous mills and logging companies until 1987, when he went to work for the Bureau of Land Management, maintaining many of the roads he had previously constructed. He retired in 2005. Then, he spent the rest of his time turning his home into his and Jean's oasis.

In 1969, they committed their lives to the Lord, a decision that guided their family with faith and purpose. Lyle and Jean were devoted members of Parkway Christian Center, where they faithfully worshiped since 1973.

Lyle and his church brothers cut and delivered firewood to members of their church community who needed winter heat. When he was not caring for his property and having breakfast with his friends, he attended his grandkids' extracurricular events. His family and friends were very important to him.

Lyle is survived by Jean, his wife of 57 years, his son Steve (Sabrina), daughter Deanna (Bruce), and two brothers, Richard and Jerry Ballew. He has six grandchildren: Aaron, Maree, Krystal, Dylan, Noah (Madi), Nathaniel (Shealein) and one great-grandchild (Ellie).

A memorial service will be at 11:00 a.m., July 25, 2025 at Hull & Hull Funeral Directors.

Private interment will be at Eagle Point National Cemetery.