Ballou, L. Duane 1928-2009

BALLOU, SIPLE, SWEETEN

Posted By: Ernie Braida (email)
Date: 11/7/2009 at 09:50:13

Louis Duane Ballou, age 80, of Pella and formerly of Knoxville, died Monday March 16, 2009, at the Pella Comfort House in Pella, Iowa.

Duane was born on July 1, 1928, in Hopeville, Iowa to Leslie and Louise (Siple) Ballou. As a young boy he attended school in the town of Kellerton, and later attended high school in Des Moines.

Before graduating from high school Duane signed with the St. Louis Cardnials. He played minor league baseball for two years. After playing professional baseball he moved back to Kellerton and graduated from Kellerton High School.

Duane served in the U.S. Army for two years after high school graduation. He served from 1951 to 1952. During his service he played baseball for the 10th Armored Division Baseball Team.

After his service Duane began a 40 year career with Iowa Power and Light. He started working in the Des Moines plant, and later he moved to Knoxville, were he retired.

In 1955 Duane married Millie Sweeten in Des Moines, Iowa. They were married for 53 years and raised five children; Becky, Laurie, Linda, Mark, and Matt.

Duane had a true love for baseball all his life. He played, scouted for the Pittsburg Pirates, taught young players the game, and enjoyed watching high school, college, and professional baseball.

Duane is survived by his wife Millie Ballou of Pella; their five children, Becky Ballou of Austin, TX, Laurie Scott of London, England, Linda Ballou-Fahrenwald and husband Jeff of Rockford, Ill, Mark Ballou and Matt Ballou both of Pella; three grandchildren, Jacki Ballou, Kelli Ballou, and Andy Fahrenwald. Duane is also survived by one brother, Alan Ballou and his wife Pat of Iowa City, one niece, Mary Ballou of Eugene, Oregon, and one Aunt Lucille Siple of Mount Ayr.

Duane is preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Louise.

Per Duane’s wishes no services are planned.

Winfield Funeral Home March 20, 2009