William Owen Ballew

William Owen Ballew, age 92 of East Grand Rapids (EGR), MI, passed away on September 12, 2023, surrounded by his family. Bill graduated from East Grand Rapids High School where he was a member of the championship football, golf, and swim teams. He attended Michigan State University and served in the US Army 1952-1954. He married the love of his life Margaret, in 1958 and settled in EGR. They raised two children, William II (Ballew) and Ann (Coyle). Bill was an avid and proficient scratch golfer who played every chance he got. Upon retirement from a successful sales career, he became the oldest Michigan P.G.A. Golf Professional and served as the Head Golf Pro at Northport Point Club for 10 years. Through his passion for golf he helped many in our community providing instruction, coaching high school teams, and was a visible presence for many years at the Grand Rapids golf show. Bill was a charter member and longstanding usher at Mayflower Congregational Church. He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Dewey Ballew; mother, Grace Owen Ballew; and sister, Nancy. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Margaret Iden Ballew; two children, William II (Sandy) Ballew and Ann (John) Coyle; and four special grandchildren, William Ballew, Grace Coyle, Mitchell Ballew, and Jack Coyle. Special thanks to the caring staff at The Village of Heather Hills and Corewell Health Hospice. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 23 at Mayflower Congregational Church, 2345 Robinson Road Grand Rapids, MI, 49506. The family will gather with relatives and friends at 10:00 am in the church chapel followed by an 11:00 am service in the sanctuary. Memorial contributions may be made to Corewell Health Foundation. West Michigan, 25 Michigan St., NE, Suite 4100, Grand Rapids, 49503; Spectrum Health Hospice, 100 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids, 49503; or First Tee West Michigan, 3450 36th St, SE, Grand Rapids, 49512.