Nelson Scott Ballard

Nelson Scott Ballard, aged 68, of Ottawa Hills, passed away on September 13th, 2022.

Scott was born on March 11th, 1954, in Washington, PA, to the late Lee and Maggie (Frasier) Ballard.

Following his graduation from Akron Firestone High School in 1972, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country for four years as a Crew Chief on F-4 Phantom jets, later serving in the Ohio Army National Guard.

After being honorably discharged, Scott went on to earn his BA degree in Industrial Arts at Kent State University, graduating Cum Laude.

After graduation, Scott joined the family business, “Ballard & Associates,” a roofing manufacturers’ distribution company.

Ever the self-starter, after a few years Scott struck out on his own, and operated his own roofing manufacturers’ rep company for over 20 years.

Not content to rest on his success, Scott furthered his education and was licensed as a Certified Roofing Consultant, a specialized role that took him across the USA and Europe.

Scott had a deep love for the game of ice hockey, both playing and refereeing for many years. A master mechanic, Scott was often seen driving around the Village of Ottawa Hills, his longtime home, in his ‘47 Dodge truck, and bright red ‘48 Dodge convertible, a near replica of his favorite high school vehicle.

An avid water-skier, Scott loved spending time with friends and family at their cottage on Center Lake, MI, where he could often be found cruising the lake on his speedboat and pontoon boat.

In recent years, Scott stayed busy consulting part-time, reading, hiking, exercising, and learning to play the banjo.

Scott was outgoing and extremely social, always the life of the party, and he never met a stranger. He was quick with a kind word and a wry smile. His humility, unpretentiousness, and kindness gained him many friends throughout his life.

Scott found his greatest joy in spending time with his beloved family. He was a proud father and devoted husband, always placing the needs of his family above his own.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 41 years, Lisa Stoddard Ballard; children, Christopher (Lauren) Ballard and Amy Ballard; brother, Michael Ballard, and sister, Leslie Kepple.

The family invites friends to visit on Saturday, September 24th, 2022, in the Walker Funeral Home (5155 Sylvania Ave). Visitation will be from 2 - 5 PM, concluding with a sharing of memories and celebration of Scott’s life from 5 - 6 PM. Following the event, the family will continue the celebration at “The Loft” in Tam-O-Shanter Hockey Rink, from 6:30 PM onwards, to give Scott the type of sendoff he would truly appreciate.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his name are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the ASPCA, or the USA Hockey Foundation.