David B. Ballman

1963 - 2017

David B. Ballman, 53

Sartell

Sept. 6, 1963 - Jan. 7, 2017



David Bernard Ballman died unexpectedly on January 7, 2017 at the age of 53 while in the comfort of his home in Sartell, MN.

Dave was born in St. Cloud, MN on September 6, 1963 to John and Eileen (Garding) Ballman.  He was baptized at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Alexandria and he confirmed his faith, which remained a vital part of his life growing up, at St. Augustines in St. Cloud.  Dave's first job was with his father at Bernick's Pepsi in Waite Park which he dedicated approximately 20 years of his life to.  He graduated from St. Cloud Tech High School in 1981 and lost his father the same year from a battle with cancer.  Three years later, Dave decided to join the Air Force and remained in service until 1988 when he was honorably discharged.  Dave met the love of his life, Brenda, in 1996 at Vilo Lanes where he and his fellow Bernick's crew stopped frequently.  After two years of dating they were united in marriage at a private ceremony with only family and close friends.  In his new role as a father, Dave openly accepted the joys and challenges of raising two young daughters, as they were his own.  Shortly after, Dave reaffirmed his faith by joining the First United Methodist Church.  Dave was the strength that Brenda needed during the passing of her father Julius in 2003.  In 2010, Dave joined the Sam's Club family where he met many dear friends and built lasting relationships.  Most recently, Dave lost his mother Eileen in November 2014 and relied on the strength of his faith and family to get him through this difficult time.

Dave had many joys in his life, but his faith and family were most important.  Dave was an avid Minnesota Wild fan and watched, recorded, or attended every game played.  When he wasn't working, or watching a game, you could find Dave enjoying a good book on his Kindle, bowling or playing darts at the family bowling alley where he worked and made many close friends, fishing with family and friends, or spending time with his three fur babies, Louie, Jenner and Tigger.

Dave is survived by his wife of 18 years, Brenda; daughter Tiffany Lynn and boyfriend Josue; daughter, Brittany Jo and fiancé Jon; sister, Karla and her three children, Atticus, Conrad and Amalie; brother Allen and wife Christine and their two children, Nathan and Elyse; mother-in-law Ardelle; brothers-in-law, Kent and Paul; sister-in-law, Becky and husband Chad and their six children, Abby, Mia, Hannah Rose, Nathan, Matt and Jon; many aunt, uncles, and cousins, some of which have passed.  He was preceded in death by his father and mother, John and Eileen, and his father-in-law, Julius.           

A service will be held at First United Methodist Church on Pine Cone Road in Sartell, MN.  Please join us for a celebration of David's life at 11:00 AM at Wednesday, January 11, 2017.  Visitation will be Tuesday, January 10, 2017 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Benson Funeral Home, St. Cloud, MN and one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.

In honor of Dave's love for the Minnesota Wild, we ask that you dress in your favorite WILD jersey.