Obituary of Carol Ball

Carol Ann (McKnight) Ball of Duluth, Mn. passed away on November 21,2023 surrounded by family in the days proceeding her death. Her daughter Laura, blessed to be with her as she took her last breath.

Carol was born to Kenneth + Margaret McKnight on October 28,1943 in Colorado Springs. She was the oldest of four children. Her sister Judith Strandlien passed away in September of 2019. Surviving siblings include Jeanne McKnight of Washington + Mike McKnight of South Dakota.

Carol grew up in Silver Bay, Mn. where she met the love of her life Ronnie Ball. They married shortly after graduation on June 09,1962. They welcomed their first born son in May of 1963 and would add 3 more to the family in the following years. Children were a welcome blessing and they opened their hearts + home to over 20 foster placements while raising kids of their own.

Together Ron + Carol spent a lifetime raising a family. It was a blessing they had all 4 of their children living within 2 miles of their home for much of their life. They loved having the opportunity to be close to watching the next generations of children grow and thrive.

Ron + Carol spent their years together doing what they loved most… gardening. Weekends were spent on day trips to find hidden greenhouse gems to add something special to their garden. They would spend hours working side by side to create a magical space that even won them a coveted “secret garden” award from the City of Duluth. They shared plants with others and their beautiful hosta + perennials grace the yards of many to this day.

When life slowed down + they were no longer able to get out and work in their yard they spent time enjoying the garden from the view of their porch, You could find Carol most days sitting outside, a book in hand and a welcome to anyone who wandered up to say hello, The coffee was always on, fresh+ abundant!

Nothing brought them more joy than when they heard the voices of their grandchildren+ great grandchildren’s voices at the door…surprise visits always welcome!

Carol lived out her vows til the day she passed….selflessly caring for her husband of 61 years when his body no longer allowed him to care for himself. “In sickness + in health, til death do us part”. No one did it better. She left a legacy of love that will be deeply missed.

Carol was survived by her husband Ronnie Ball for 3 days when he joined her in eternity.

She is survived by her children John (Karen) Ball Grandchildren Emily (Ben ) Tessier Great grandchildren Kolbe,(Emerson), Brinley + Quentin Katie ( Zach ) Rosenthal Great grandchild Jaxon Carly Ball + Olivia Ball

Laura Plys ( fiance Gregg Andrews ) Grandchildren Chris ( Alyssa Hei ) Plys Anna ( David ) McParlan Great grandchildren Audrey, Raleigh, Wesley, Shai’yanna + Mariam McParlan Daniel Plys, Noah Plys + Jonah Plys

Tim ( Taci ) Ball Grandchildren Matthew Ball + Victoria Ball

Bryon Ball + Grandchild Laura Lee Ball

Best friend Donna Lee Beaupre + Angel nurse friend Pat Montgomery as well as a large extended family who loved her.

A service to honor the couple will be held in the future.

Memorials can be made to: Project Joy 5654 Chalstrom Drive Saginaw, Mn. 55779