Vernon “Bud” Ballard, 83, passed away on June 15, 2016. Bud was born on September 17, 1932 in Lincoln, Nebraska to the late Joseph and Susanna (McCarty) Ballard. Shortly after his birth, the family moved to Florissant, Colorado where Bud attended school. After graduation, he entered the United States Air Force where he proudly served his country for four years as a firefighter. Bud lived in Korea during the Korean War and after discharging the armed forces, lived in Woodland Park. He traveled all over the state working construction and was a heavy equipment operator for 40 years.
In his spare time, he enjoyed listening to music, playing his guitar, sightseeing and exploring the mountains and spending time with his family (especially his grandchildren.) Coffee with biscuits and gravy at a local restaurant or café was a morning staple!
Bud is survived by his sons: Michael (Teresa) Ballard and Russell (Debra) Ballard; six grandchildren: Stacy Ruiz, Michael Ballard, Jr., Lisa Hatheway, Chad Ballard, Brad Ballard and Danielle Ballard. He is also survived by one great grandchild, Aspen Ballard. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, (name); son, Terry Ballard and his siblings: Bobby, Carol, Floyd, Wilbur and Ruth.
Memorial services and military honors will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 24, 2016 at the Shrine of Remembrance Funeral Home, 1730 East Fountain Boulevard, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80910. Private burial will take place at a later date.