John M. Ball

After a courageous struggle, John M Ball, a beloved father, stepfather, grandfather and great-grandfather, left this world on his own terms at the age of 95. Born in Maxwell, California on August 28, 1929, John was known for his independent spirit and zest for life. John was a true Renaissance man. At a young age he worked on a ranch. In addition, he roped cattle and participated in the local rodeos. John developed a love for the outdoors, and it stayed with him throughout his entire life hunting, fishing and golfing. In 1950 he joined the Navy and completed gunners mate school. He met his first wife Grace in the Navy, and they eventually settled in New Jersey with Grace's parents. Eventually they bought a house in Keene, NY and constructed an 8-unit motel. John worked for C.E. Edmonds in Keene Valley, NY and was taught the trade of a carpenter. After many years in the Adirondacks John and Grace moved to Albany, NY with their four children where John joined the local union and worked on constructing the University Albany Campus. In 1976 John moved to Houston, Texas to pursue his fortune and started Lone Star Building and Construction Services. Along with his two sons and daughter, John built an extremely prosperous and well-known construction business that will be part of his legacy. While living in Houston, John married Sue Percifield Lawrence. Sue had two children and John embraced them as his own. While married to Sue, they created the "Ball Family Compound" on Lake Livingston. Many a weekend was spent with family creating memories and putting corn in everyone's pancakes. John is survived by his children, Debby Goedeke (husband, Art); Wayne Ball (wife, Chrissy); Tamie Sanchez (husband, Joaquin); Louis Ball (wife, Lynne), Sandy Kovar (husband, Shannon); and David Lawrence; ten grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the "Tunnel of Towers" foundation. A celebration of John's life will be on Thursday, December 19th at Cornerstone Community Bible Church located at 6701 FM-762, Richmond, Texas 77469. Viewing will be at 2:30 and service at 3:30. Reception to follow. A private burial will be held at a later date in Alvarado, Texas. A quote from John - "A good golfer I am not, a good provider I was. While I won't win any Father of the Year awards, I tried and have enjoyed life to its fullest and will continue living life in the same manner". .

Tributes

John M. Ball

August 28, 1929 - December 13, 2024