Earl Ballou

EARL O. BALLOU

Cedar Rapids

Earl O. Ballou, 92, of Cedar Rapids, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 22, 2021. A public visitation will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Friday, April 30, at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home. Following the continued guidance from health officials, physical distancing must be practiced, which requires a limited number of people allowed into the visitation at one time. The use of face masks or shields is required. A private family funeral service and burial will follow.

Earl Ballou was born Feb. 19, 1929, in Cedar Rapids, to Edwin and Kathryn (Little) Ballou. Earl was married to Natalie J. Jenkins. Earl owned and operated Ballou Hardware, and later Ballou Wholesale Hardware in Cedar Rapids for many years. He later worked as a union laborer and belonged to the Laborers International Union Local No. 43. Earl was a longtime member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles No. 4114 Aerie of Guttenberg, Iowa, and the Loyal Order of the Moose, Lodge No. 304 in Cedar Rapids.

Earl could be outspoken and ornery, but he had a big heart and cared deeply for his family and friends. He was a jack of all trades and a master handyman. He enjoyed fishing and furniture making.

Earl is survived by his daughter, Kathryn "Kat" M. Ballou Hansen, Cedar Rapids; son, Rodney D. Ballou (Dave Oshita), Honolulu, Hawaii; grandson, Sidney Hansen; and his four-legged, tail wagging pal, Perdita, who will miss all the extra snacks that Earl supplied her with!

Earl was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Natalie; his parents; his siblings, Ralph G. Ballou, Donald "Tib" Ballou and Audrey (Ballou) Morehead; and son-in-law, Sid Hansen.

Earl's family would like to thank Avalon Hospice, as well as their family friend Kathy for all the special time she spent with Earl.

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations may be made in Earl's memory to Camp Courageous of Iowa.

Online condolences are welcome at www.cedarmemorial.com under obituaries.