Obituary of Robert Ball

Bob Ball, 53, of Riverview, Florida passed away peacefully on January 28, 2020. Bob was born on June 10, 1966, in Skokie, Illinois to James and Eileen Ball.

Bob is preceded in death by his father, James Ball, his mother, Eileen Ball, and sister, Carolyn Nash. He is survived by his loving wife of 23 years Brandie Ball and their fur baby, Norm; four nephews: James Wollensak, Michael Wollensak (Noel Yumang), Joseph Holman, and Jimmy Holman; two great nephews: Luke Wollensak and Charlie Wollensak; father-in-law, James Blamble, and sister-in-law, Martie Holman.

Bob moved to St. Petersburg, Florida from Chicago, Illinois in 1978. Bob grew up loving football and became a very talented offensive lineman while playing for the Northeast High School Vikings. After high school, Bob continued his football career at Southeast Missouri State on a football scholarship. As an adult, his greatest joy was coaching youth and high school football. Over the years, Bob coached for the Northeast Bandits, St. Pete Catholic High School, Lennard High School, and Bell Creek Academy High School.

Another passion of Bob’s was helping others to strengthen their personal relationship with Jesus. He had a heart for both men’s ministry and youth ministry. He was very active and influential in leading classes and retreats for men based on the book, ‘Wild at Heart’ by John Eldredge.   

Bob always enjoyed being with his friends and family. He loved watching football games, celebrating milestones, and just spending time ‘hanging out’ together.

Bob faced many health issues over the past year and personally experienced the importance of an individual becoming an organ donor. There is no doubt Bob would ask each of us to think about becoming an organ donor to give the gift of life.

Visitation will be Friday, February 7, 2020, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Anderson-McQueen Funeral Home, 2201 Dr. MLK Street N, St. Petersburg, FL, 33704. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. at SeaGlass Church, 202 Flamingo Dr, Apollo Beach, FL 33572.