George Ball

George D. "Buzz" Ball, D.C.

February 13, 1938 – March 13, 2025

With great sadness, we announce the passing of George D. Ball, lovingly known as “Buzz,” who peacefully departed this life at his lifelong home after 87 years of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends.

Born to George R. and Ima Mae (Beckman) Ball, George tragically lost his mother at just two years old, leaving him without memories of her. His father later remarried Mary Virginia Arbogast Ball and Margaret Bisbee Ball, both of whom also preceded him in death. He was also preceded by his beloved brother, Francis L. Ball, and his dear son, Michael James Ball, in 1976.

From his father’s marriage to Mary Virginia, George had two half-siblings: Bonnie Ball, who passed away at age 16, and John Ball of Caroltown, GA, who survives him.

The greatest love of George’s life was his wife, Sally L. (Bales) Ball, with whom he recently celebrated 53 years of marriage on February 5, 2025. Together, they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and the simple joys of family. He is survived by his sons, Jeremy J. Ball and Jeffrey A. Ball (Sara Croot Hughes Ball), as well as his two cherished grandchildren, George H. Ball and Helena M. Ball. His loyal granddog, Izzy, will surely be wondering where all of the treats have gone.

George was a proud uncle to Dr. Jennifer Ball, Dr. Kimberly Ball, Heather Crawford, and Scott Crawford, all of whom he loved like his own children.

He is also survived by his dear cousins, David and Robert Beckman, who were like brothers to him. Affectionately known as #3 and #4.

A man of many talents and an unwavering work ethic, George attended Alliance College before graduating from Lincoln Chiropractic College in Indianapolis, Indiana, in 1964. His brother, Francis, convinced him to enroll for the family discount, but George ultimately found his passion elsewhere. Though he maintained his chiropractic license in North Carolina, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania, he spent over 30 years working at Ivor J. Lee in Sharon, PA. A proud member of the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local Union 47 in Monaca, PA, George remained deeply committed to his work and never left his hometown, ensuring his children could attend Cambridge Springs schools.

George was the kind of man who could fix just about anything—whether it was a leaky pipe, a broken sink, or someone’s bad hand in a card game. A handyman at heart, he loved playing cards, especially in the card clubs of the ’70s and ’80s, and he never turned down the chance to lend a helping hand.

He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: watching Penn State and Pittsburgh Steelers football games, tuning in to cable news, and enjoying classic Westerns. An outdoorsman at heart, he loved hunting in the big woods, fishing, and spending time at Ball Camp near Marienville, PA. Friday fish fries were a tradition, and he could often be found at the Log Cabin, Ricci’s, Corner Tavern, Crossbow, and The Rambler at Riverside.

Mornings often began with coffee around town, particularly at Closky’s Service Station and Bausch’s, where he would catch up on the latest happenings. He also enjoyed hanging with the guys at Ralph Crook’s tool shop, swapping stories, sharing laughs, and passing the time with good company. He had a love for puzzles, especially tackling the daily Jumble in the paper—a tradition that continued until his eyesight began to fail him.

Though time took its toll—a knee replacement, eye shots, a back stimulator, and a famously “broken wrist filling the bird feeder”—George never let his physical ailments dampen his spirit. He remained a steadfast presence, always offering his wisdom, humor, and selflessness to those around him.

George was incredibly grateful for the love and support of his very dear neighbors, Joe and Alberta Grippe, who were like family—Alberta a mother to him and a grandmother to Jeremy and Jeff. He was also blessed with the friendship of his late neighbors, Al and Julia Cykoski, whose surviving family continues to keep the neighborhood connected. To his current neighbors who have carried on in the spirit of community, offering support and kindness, he was forever thankful.

George gave his entire heart to those he loved, and his kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication will leave a lasting imprint on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His was a life well-lived, filled with hard work, deep love, and a never-ending willingness to help others.

Though his presence will be deeply missed, his legacy of love and integrity will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know him.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor George’s memory by sharing a meal with loved ones, lending a hand to someone in need, or simply enjoying a good Western.

Rest easy, George. You were one of the good ones. We will continue to love you and will see you when we all get there.

Please sign George’s online guestbook at www.hatheway-tedesco.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Hatheway-Tedesco Funeral Home and Crematory, 614 Baldwin St., Meadville, PA 16335.