Michael "Mike" Stephan Ballard

Michael (Mike) Stephan Ballard, 73, of Baraboo, passed away on Friday, March 22, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.

Mike was born to Carl and Alice (Jones) Ballard in Ottumwa, Iowa on December 28, 1950.  A 1969 graduate of Ottumwa High School, he went on to enlist and serve in the United States Air Force.  After his honorable discharge in 1976, Mike returned to his hometown and later married Deana Helms on March 19, 1977.  Mike attended Indian Hills College and Buena Vista College where he obtained an Associate of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Arts degree respectively.  He worked for over 30 years as a cost accountant in the meatpacking industry.  Mike retired from the USDA in 2014.  He was an avid supporter of the NRA being a deer, pheasant and duck hunter.  Mike also enjoyed fishing; especially at his son’s cabin in Northern Wisconsin.  He loved spending time with his 6 grandchildren - sharing stories, telling jokes, and watching them grow.

 Mike is survived by his wife, Deana, of 47 years; his children, Mandy Beauchamp and Josh (Erin) Ballard; his grandchildren, Alia Sondalle, Kylie Beauchamp, Mason Ballard, Keagan Ballard, Logan Beauchamp, and Isabel Ballard.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Alice Ballard; and his siblings, Pat Kelley, Sandy Ballard, and his twin brother, Mark Ballard.

A private burial for the family will be held at The Ottumwa Cemetery in Ottumwa, Iowa at a later date.

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