Frank K Ball Jr.

Frank K. Ball Jr., 91, of Castleton, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on October 3, 2026, with his loving family by his side. In his final days, he was surrounded by the love and comfort of those closest to him.

Born in Albany, NY, Frank was the son of the late Frank and Dorcas Ball. He was a graduate of Columbia High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army, receiving an honorable discharge.

Frank retired from Mobil Oil, where he worked for many years as a truck driver and earned the affectionate nickname "Ping Pong." His skill behind the wheel was recognized when he earned the title of Champion at the New York State Truck Roadeo, where he had also previously been named Rookie of the Year. While driving for Mobil he also found time to be a substitute school bus driver for many years. Retirement did little to slow Frank down, he went on to work for the Town of Schodack Highway Department as a wingman and enjoyed working alongside his son, Frank, at Schodack Trucking and Septic. His daily routing consisted of visiting Jiffy Mart, Columbia Physical Therapy for a "workout", and Crisp Canoli to gather with the "Romeo group" for a glazed donut and coffee.

Family was truly the center of Frank's world. He loved deeply, gave generously, and treasured the time he spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His greatest joy was simply being together with the people he loved.

Beyond his family, Frank was a beloved and dedicated member of his community. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, give his time, and be there for others whenever he was needed. His commitment to his community touched many lives and was recognized in 2013 when he received a Community Service Award, a fitting honor for someone who spent so much of his life giving back.

Frank was a life member of the South Schodack Fire Company and served as a fire commissioner. He was a Mason with the East Greenbush Van Rensselaer Lodge No. 87 and a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF). He was also a founder of the Upstate Ford V8 Club, reflecting his longtime enthusiasm for automobiles.

His dedication extended to both his church and the local cemetery. Frank was a devoted member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Castleton, where he served as property chairman, and he served as vice president of the Castleton Cemetery Association.

For at least 50 years, Frank also held a very special place in the hearts of generations of local children as their Santa Claus. Through local fire departments, churches, Head Start programs, and other community gatherings, Frank brought the magic and joy of Christmas to countless families. His familiar red suit, warm smile, and generous spirit became a treasured tradition in the community and created memories that will continue to be shared for years to come.

Frank is survived by his loving wife, Florita "Flo" Ball; his children, Anne Marie (David) Wemple, Frank (Cindy) Ball III, and Tammy Baird; his sister, Betty Kappas; his grandchildren, Frankie (Jenai) Ball, Danielle (Zach) Pouliotte, Timmy (Elise) Ball, Nicole (Justin) Pare, Chris (Brittany) Hoffarth, and Brooke (Dusty) Albertine; and his 11 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, as well as his loving canine companion, Bella.

In addition to his parents, Frank was predeceased by his sister, Dorothy Anamier, and his grandson, D.J. Wemple.

Words are simply not enough to express the gratitude Frank's family has for the many people who cared for him with such kindness and compassion. The family extends a very special thank you to Bitsy, Kim, Elaina, and Mark for the loving care they provided at home; Paul, SueAnn, Rachel, Ceylon, Nate, Barbara, Abby, Ashley, and Emily for their compassionate home hospice care; and Leslie, Becky, Brittany, Tom, and Kevin for the comfort and care they provided during Frank's time at St. Peter's Hospice Inn. Also the wonderful care from the staff at Columbia Physical Therapy. The kindness shown to Frank and his family throughout this journey will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

Frank's life was one of family, service, hard work, and generosity. Whether helping a neighbor, serving his community, working alongside his family, or bringing a smile to a child's face, he gave freely of himself and asked little in return. His legacy will live on through his family and the many people whose lives were made better simply because Frank was a part of them.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, October 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Castleton. A funeral service will follow at the church, commencing at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Frank's memory to Trinity Lutheran Church, 68 Green Ave., Castleton, NY 12033, or to The Community Hospice, 310 S. Manning Blvd., Albany, NY 12208.