Robert D. “Buck” Ball, 87, Mexico, passed away Monday, April 8, 2024, at the Harry S. Truman V.A. Medical Center in Columbia. He was born August 8, 1936, in Paris, the son of the late Arch and Grace (Sprague) Ball. On October 28,1956, he was united in marriage to Doris (Burchfield) Ball.
In addition to his wife Doris of 68 years, he will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by one son Darren Ball and his wife Debra of Ft. Smith, Ark.; one daughter Kellie Livingston of Mexico; three grandchildren Sara George, Chad Ball and Shane Ball; ten great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; cousins; other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to his parents, two brothers, four sisters and his son in law Bob Livingston preceded him in death.
Buck served his country in the United States Army. He first worked for Coca-Cola in Mexico, then at A.B. Chance Co. in Centralia, and finally as a truck driver for Wetterau Foods in Mexico, retiring after many years. He was a member of the Teamsters and enjoyed hunting, collecting knives, guns and leather work. He loved horses, mules and even jockeyed during horse races. He loved spending time with his favorite mule Paco and his dog Scooter.
Memorial services will be 6 p.m. Thursday, April 11, 2024, at the American Legion Post 26, 19311 Highway 22, Mexico, Mo. 65265. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until service time on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at the American Legion Post 26, 19311 Highway 22, Mexico, Mo. 65265. A graveside service will be 12 p.m. Friday, April 12, 2024, at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, Mo. Memorial contributions may be made to the Just As I Am Cowboy Church, c/o Oliver Funeral Home, P.O. Box 125, Centralia, Mo. 65240. Condolences may also be made to the family at www.oliverfuneralhome.net
