James Curtis Ballard (Jim)
James Curtis Ballard (Jim), passed away on January 30, 2018 at his home in Herlong, California.
He was born to Vernon and Marguerite Ballard on March 17, 1950 in Mount Shasta, California. At a young age his family moved to Milton-Freewater, Oregon where he lived until high school graduation. Following graduation from Mcloughlin Union High School, Jim proudly served his country in the US Navy. He served active duty from 1968 – 1972. During that time, he spent two tours in Vietnam as a Sea Bee and married his high school sweetheart. Jim and Pat were married on October 3, 1970. While in Vietnam Jim received 2 field promotions, a gallantry cross and 5 other medals and ribbons.
Upon completion of his military service, Jim immediately began his career with the United States Forest Service. Jim enjoyed his role as “Smokey the Bear” in numerous parades and during many campfire learning programs. After the combined total of 28 years federal service, Jim retired from the Forest Service in 1996.
Jim enjoyed spending time with their beloved dachshund Jumba and was a local wildlife enthusiast. He and Pat spent many an hour watching and photographing the creatures that visited their backyard habitat. Jim also loved to pass the time by completing beautiful and unique jigsaw puzzles.
Jim leaves behind his wife of 47 years, Pat; son John, of Milford, Ca.; son Jim (Kim), of Mariposa, Ca.; son Josh (Trish), of Janesville, Ca.; 7 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his sister Martha, of Milton-Freewater, Or.; sister Verna, of West Richland, Wa. and brother Bill, of Milton-Freewater, Ore.
There will be a memorial service held at a later date.
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