Obituary of Ronnie Robert Ball

Ronnie Robert Ball of Duluth passed away unexpectedly on November 24, 2023

Ronnie was born on March 30, 1941 in Worthington, Mn. to Laura ( Cowell ) + Robert Ball.

Though Ronnie’s childhood was met with heartache, we, his family, believe it shaped him into the amazing husband, father and grandparent that he was.

Ronnie met the love of his life, Carol McKnight, in Silver Bay. High school sweethearts who married young and went on to have four children…3 sons + a daughter. During their child raising years they also welcomed over 20 foster placements into their hearts and home.

Ron had a special way with children. He devoted his career to working with children of all ages + backgrounds at Northwoods Children’s Home. He spent over 40 years making a difference as a counselor, team supervisor and eventually the Recreational Director. He provided fun + encouragement through play and introduced the concept of New Games to many…teaching others his motto of “The Most Fun Wins”. He also devoted years to coaching youth sports + many former players sought him out as adults to let him know the impact he had on their life.

Ron was a devoted husband, father + grandparent, supporting the kids youth activities while he was able. You could often find him with his crazy hats + a cowbell in hand cheering loudly and making new friends wherever he went.

We will forever miss his kind + gentle spirit and his smile that would light up a room.

Ron lost the love of his life on November 21, 2023 and joined her in eternity just 3 short days later….being apart was just too much for his broken heart.

He leaves behind four children, 12 grandchildren + 10 great grandchildren.

John ( Karen ) Ball Grandchildren Emily ( Ben ) Tessier, Great Grand children 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 And a large extended family who loved him.

The family would like to thank his angel nurse Pat Montgomery for the honoring way she cared for him. For the kindness, respect and smiles she brought that added greatly to his quality of life. Pat, you will forever hold a place in our hearts + family.

A double service will be held at a later date.

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