Christopher Ball

Christopher B. Ball

February 9, 1953 – December 24, 2023

Christopher Ball was born in Portland Oregon, the second of 4 children of Bruce and Mildred Ball. He attended Kellog Grade School, Franklin High School, and Mt. Hood Community College. He spent every possible moment escaping the city to hike and fish in the Cascades, and moved away from the city as soon as he could. He worked as a logger until he moved to Alaska, and missed that work and work environment the rest of his life.

He came to Alaska in 1982 with his wife, Gayle, and rarely left in the following 41 years. He fulfilled a lifelong dream by coming to Alaska, finding his true home. He and Gayle spent two years in Anchorage before moving to Homer, finally escaping city life for good.

He had many adventures, hunting, fishing, flying and boating around the state, and made many friends as a result- for a curmudgeon (self-professed) he was pretty friendly. Chris was passionate, intense, and not shy about sharing his views and his knowledge. He was well known as an expert marine diesel mechanic and built a loyal following of customers over his 38 years in business.

Chris was a loving, dedicated family man. He passed away shortly after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He died at home, surrounded by his family, as was his wish.

Chris is survived by his wife Gayle, sons Derek and Alexander and Derek's wife Leza, his siter Susan King and brothers Clifford and Daniel Ball. He will be sorely missed.

A memorial will be held in the spring of 2024.