Michael Francis Ball

Michael Francis Ball, 60, of Las Cruces lost a hard fought battle with cancer of his bladder on Sunday October 12, 2014. Mike was at home at the time of his passing with his dog Murphy at his left side and the love of his life Karen Kendall at his right side. Mike was also surrounded by several close friends who loved him dearly. Mike was born December 18, 1953 in Glendale, California, and was blessed to be adopted a few days later by Onetha and Dr. Ralph Ball. He is survived by his life partner, Karen Kendall and her son Roy Wagner Jr. of Las Cruces, NM, one sister Shelly Rice and husband Peter of Socorro, NM, two nephews Evan Rice of Albuquerque, NM and Ian Rice of Los Angeles, CA, one aunt Catie Dixon, cousin David Dixon and wife Marion of Albuquerque, cousins Francie Hardman with husband King and Jack Phelps with wife Danielle. Also left mourning Mike's passing are best friends Pete and Joyce Bradley. Pete and Joyce were always a part of Mike's life, having fun and helping to care for him regularly. Mike's family is eternally grateful to the Bradley's for making Mike a member of their family. Without Joyce Mike's final wish of coming home would not have been possible. Michael was preceded in death by his parents. Michael attended New Mexico State University and obtained his Masters Degree in Psychology. At the time of his retirement, Michael was employed at The Mac Doctor. Mike had a life changing motorcycle accident when he was fifteen years old and left him paralyzed and wheelchair bound. This situation never held him back from doing whatever he wanted to do. Cars and motorcycles were Mike's passion with a true admiration for his 1976 Pontiac Trans Am. Recently Mike could be found with his life partner Karen building their dream: Karen's Animal House. He was a driving force in designing and constructing their boarding kennel and dog training facility. Mike's family would like to thank the nursing staff and doctors at Mountain View Regional medical Center and Memorial medical Center for helping him in this fight. In addition, a special thank you to the fine folks of La Posada Hospice, for making it possible for Mike to spend his final days at home where he longed to be. A Celebration of Mike's life will be held Saturday, November 1, 2014 at 11am at Getz Funeral Home. Following the Celebration everyone is invited to a pot luck/cookout at Karen's Animal House, 1646 Mahaney Dr., Las Cruces, NM. Mike enjoyed these cookouts and we will be gathering to honor Mike one more time. In lieu of flowers Mike's family is requesting donations to assist with funeral expenses at www.GoFundMe.com/M-Ball, donations can also be made to Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley; where Mike got Murphy. PDF Printable Version