We are deeply sorry for your loss - the staff at Donald B Thompson Funeral Home
Merle (Moose) Ballam, 87, of Harmony, Maryland, passed away on May 20, 2022 after a brief period of illness.
Moose was born on January 15, 1935 to Beulah Souders Rowe and Oliver John Ballam, Sr. of Mt. Lena, Maryland. After completing his education at Boonsboro High School he went on to work as a carpenter. He was later employed by the Pangborn Corporation in Hagerstown, and then spent 25 years as a member of the Frederick County Highway Department.
Moose was a life-long fan of the game of baseball; not only because he loved playing the game in his youth but also because it introduced him to Jane Ford with whom he shared a seven decade love story. They met while he was playing for Harmony’s Heart of Maryland baseball team and were married shortly thereafter in 1953. They had two children, Audrey Jean Ballam in 1954 and John David Ballam in 1963.
In 1997, Moose retired and spent his time watching baseball, working outdoors, and visiting with friends for breakfast several mornings each week. Moose and Jane also traveled extensively throughout the United Kingdom, visiting family and making lifelong memories.
Moose was predeceased by his mother and father, his brother Samuel, brother Oliver John, Jr., and sister Jean. He is also predeceased by his daughter Audrey Jean Stottlemyer and granddaughter Carrie Blanche Stottlemyer.
He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Jane Lois Ballam of Harmony. Two sisters, Margaret Horner of Mariottsville, MD and Joan Heger of Pasadena, MD. His son, John Ballam of Oxford, England. His granddaughter, Melanie Raynor of Middletown, MD. His grandson, Nathaniel Stottlemyer of Glenmore, PA. His
granddaughters, Lydia Ballam and Clarissa Ballam of England. His grandson, Alistair Ballam of Wales. His great-grandchildren, Camden, Owen, and Kenna Raynor of Middletown, MD, and Grayson and Mona Stottlemyer of Glenmore, PA., as well as many nieces and nephews.
Jane would also like to recognize the special relationship that Moose had with his nephew Denny and his lovely wife Deb. They have been a special part of their lives.
A viewing will be held on Thursday May 26 from 6:00- 8:00. A funeral service will take place Friday May 27 at 10:00 at Thompson Funeral Home in Middletown, MD followed by a graveside service at the Harmony Cemetery.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Merle David Ballam, please visit our floral store.
We are deeply sorry for your loss - the staff at Donald B Thompson Funeral Home