James G. Ball, 84, of Rock Island, passed away on July 20, 2016 at Hope Creek Care Center, East Moline after a battle with lung disease (COPD).  Per his wishes, cremation rites were accorded and private inurnment will take place at a later date in Calhoun County, Illinois.  Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.  Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island is assisting the family.

James was born on April 29, 1932 in Belleview, Calhoun County, Illinois,  a son of Ray A. and Leota M. (Gill) Ball.  He attended school Belleview and Pleasant Hill Community High School.  James served his country in the U.S. Army.  He was a Korean War veteran, discharged at the rank of Sergeant.   He was married to Alyce Campbell and to this union four children were born.  Jim worked as a truck driver for Kraft Foods until their restructure.  He then worked with A.N.R. Trucking and other companies including Eastern Express.  After his retirement, Jim worked locally at the Milan Manor as a maintenance man.

Jim had a passion for cars, building them and racing the ones he built at the 34 Raceway Park in Burlington and the Davenport Fair Grounds.  After his marriage to Leah Stahl, he enjoyed working as her sound man when she sang country and gospel music at various locations in the midwest.  When a need arose in his neighborhood, he gladly offered his help doing repairs and remodeling.

Survivors include his wife, Leah; daughters, Lin (Rich) Templeton, Richmond, Mo., Ann Kennison, Independence, Mo.; grandsons, Jeremy, Jacob and Jordan Lindle and J.T. Crownover; granddaughters, Alison and Haley Crownover; great granddaughters, Kylee, Penelope and Eliza Lindle; stepchildren, Cathy Mackay and John Stahl; and a sister, Louise Stromberg, Galena, Ill.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Timothy; daughter, Susan and grandson, John.