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Michael William Ballard, age 79, of New Richmond, WI, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025.
He was born September 18, 1945, in Menomonie, WI, to George and Luberta (Moore) Ballard. He graduated from UW–River Falls in 1969 and later earned a master’s degree in Education Administration. Mike served as a school administrator for the School District of New Richmond for over 20 years, later working as an elementary counselor for an additional three years.
On December 18, 1966, Mike married Susan (Wesley) Ballard. Together they built a life rooted in family and service, residing in their beloved home along the Willow River for 47 years.
Mike was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Susan; his children, Michael (Jenny) Ballard and DeAnn (Pete) Halverson; and four grandchildren: Mallory and Sophie Ballard, and Jackie and Maddie Halverson. He is also survived by his brothers, George (Geri) Ballard of Crivitz, WI, and Ray (Georgiann) Ballard of Canfield, OH; and nephews JR (Jenni) Ballard and Scott (Kris) Bibeau. He was preceded in death by parents George and Luberta Ballard, his sister, Naomi Bibeau, and brother-in-law, Guy Bibeau.
Mike will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and love of people. Known for inviting company in with a pot of coffee and a welcoming smile, he cherished visits with family and friends. He and Sue traveled extensively across the U.S. and he enjoyed many hunting and fishing trips that were as much about camaraderie as they were about the outdoors. He loved dogs, playing softball, good pie, and meaningful conversation. His quiet service to others left a legacy of kindness that touched many lives.
A Celebration of Life was held Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 12:00PM at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (728 S Knowles Ave) New Richmond, Wisconsin, with visitation starting at 10:00AM. Following the service, burial proceedings took place at Lower Weston Cemetery, 290th Street, Weston, Dunn County, WI 54751. After interment, everyone joined the family at The Weston Saloon (E1745 361st Ave) Menomonie for food and fellowship.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Mike’s name.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of Orchard View Terrace and hospice for their dedicated and compassionate care.
Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
12 Comments
My sympathies to the Ballard family. I met Mike when he hired me to work as a Para Educator in the Early Childhood Special Needs Program 32 years ago. He was good man. May he R.I.P.
My heartfelt sympathy to your family as you begin this difficult journey called grief. Mike was my special education director at New Richmond for many years. He had a very kind heart, always had an ear for listening, and was always open to trying new ideas. He was the best. He always talked about his family! You were the most important to him always!
My deepest sympathies to Sue, Mike, DeAnn and families. The final goodbye is never easy. Cherish all your warm, loving memories with him. I worked with Mike all his years in NR. We always had laughs, and many discussions about the kids we dealt with. May you rest in peace Mike.
For all the years of working with Mike….God speed! His everlasting snide smile will always be remembered, and his love for the kids he worked with. Prayers to all: Sue, Mike and Deann.
Maggie and Steve
Our deepest sympathy. Sue, Mike and DeAnn. I really enjoyed our snowmobile trips in the north woods. Mike helped re-roof our lake cabin many years ago after NRMS staff had helped roof Mike and Sue’s home years before. I will miss his wry sense of humor. RIP, Mike.
Bruce Howe
Heartfelt condolences to the Ballard family. I know his grace and style will live on through all those blessed to know and love him. Please take the time you need to review and cherish the legacy Mike left behind.
My deepest condolences to Sue, Mike and Deann and families. Mike was Director of Special Education as a new teacher to the school district. I will remember him as kind, funny and friendly. He always had a few good jokes to tell. He valued his family and his time with them. Thinking about you all.
I am sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. He was a terrific guy! He was very professional as my Special Services Director. He cared about the students and encouraged us to create terrific learning environments for them. He was very respectable and encouraged me to ask the school board for a second teacher when it was needed. He also supported us with his team and with parents when there were complications. Mike was also a fun guy who we could joke around with to let off steam. I will always look back on the years under Mike’s supervision as the best years of my career in New Richmond Schools. He was the best supervisor I ever had. God bless the Sue and the entire Ballard family. Mike was a fine Wisconsin man and he will be missed. Life has to end but love doesn’t.
Dear Sue and Family,
Thank you so very much for including our family in the services, as we were all here together with you in California through the televised service. We only regret so much not being there in person with everyone. We so much appreciate all of the heart felt words and sentiments spoken about our beloved and much missed relative.
We love you all very much,
Ron Brown Family
It was a beautiful service
I will always cherish mike he was so funny and always picking on me I will miss that alot and talking to him every other day mike and family will always have a special place in my heart I love this whole family I was so close to the ballard family they are the most loving family that anyone could ask for love you all bill and lori
It was a beautiful service
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