Russell Ballard

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Obituary

Russell Ballard, age 82, passed away in Naperville, Illinois, after a long illness. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Russ spent most of his adult life in Elgin but grew up in Chicago.

Russ was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lauren. He is survived by his children, David (Angie) and Chris (Lisa), and his cherished grandchildren, Zachary, Allison, and Jackson. He was a loving father, grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Russell devoted his entire educational career to Community Unit School District 300, where he served in a variety of leadership roles. He was Principal at Westfield Community School, Carpentersville Middle School, Perry Elementary School, and Kings Road Elementary School, and served as Assistant Principal at Dundee Middle School and Perry Middle School. In addition to his full-time work, he contributed as a consultant and led Administrative Academies through the Kane County Region.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Roosevelt University, a Master of Arts in History, and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Education from Northern Illinois University and was an active member and past president of Phi Delta Kappa (Northern Illinois University Chapter) and the Kane County Elementary Principals Organization.

Russ coached youth basketball for the YMCA and YWCA, served as past president of the Elgin Babe Ruth Teener League, was involved with the Elgin National Little League and numerous other community organizations. He was a positive influence on the lives of many as he served in these roles.

Professionally, he was a frequent presenter at educational conferences and received numerous honors, including the Phi Delta Kappa Service Award, Kane County Elementary Principals Organization Leadership Award, and District #300 Administrator of the Year.

Russ enjoyed sports, specifically baseball with a highlight being able to attend a World Series game for the 2005 Chicago White Sox (his favorite team), was a voracious reader and enjoyed spending time with his family who were most important to him.

He is survived by his children and grandchildren, his sister, several nieces and nephews, along with many extended family members who will remember him as a devoted and caring family man.

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