Fred Everett Ballard

Fred Everett Ballard, born on May 26, 1946, passed away on March 11, 2025, at the age of 78. He is survived by his wife Linda, his children, Jennifer (Jason) Griffin and David (Gina) Ballard, and his four grandchildren, Hank and Eddie Griffin, and Heath and Penny Ballard. He was predeceased by his parents, Foster and Ruth (nee Mason) Ballard.

Fred grew up in Rogers Park (graduating from Sullivan High School in 1964), and lived in Evanston, Winnetka, and Highland Park throughout his life. As a young man, he followed his love for books when he worked at Barbara’s Bookstore and Kroch’s & Brentano’s until he started his career as a computer programmer and software developer. The challenge of using his math brain drove him to solve problems and create what was needed. He was an early adopter.

Fred married the love of his life, Linda, in 1990. Watching old movies, going out to restaurants, visiting family and friends, and simply being together was how they liked to spend their time. While they traveled far and wide, their favorite place was Paris. The love they shared was the kind everyone hopes to find. The way they cared for each other in times of sickness proved their unwavering commitment to have as much time together as possible. They never gave up on each other, no matter how hard things got. Their love carried them through the most challenging of times while still enjoying being together through it all.

Fred was a dedicated, proud father. Being at every single softball and baseball game that Jennifer and David played was important to him. It didn’t matter if they won or lost; he just wanted to be with his children. Being there for all their events was a priority. Introducing his children to loud rock music was a big part of their upbringing, and it built a lifelong love for going to concerts for both of them. Fred was the dad that brought Jennifer, David, and their friends to waterparks, arcades, miniature golf, and other fun places as children. He insisted that their friends call him by his first name because he was having fun alongside everyone. As they grew older, Fred was a wonderful sounding board and guide through life for both of his children.

His grandchildren gave Grandpa Fred so much joy. He watched their sports games, played with them, taught them games, and laughed with them in the most gentle, loving way. They were each drawn to Grandpa Fred, wanting him to read to them when they were little, or to listen to their stories as they grew older. They especially love that he introduced them to geocaching, and spent many hours together searching for hidden treasures. He loved to hear about their successes, their adventures, and their everyday life. They meant everything to him.

A Celebration of Fred will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. at Weinstein & Piser Funeral Home, 111 Skokie Blvd., Wilmette, IL 60091. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at Donate to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.