Samuel “Sam” Ballas
Samuel “Sam” Ballas, 95, of Gates, Pa., passed away Wednesday, May 17, 2006, at 6:20 a.m. in Coville Personal Care, Masontown, Pa. He was born in Herbert, Pa., on August 9, 1910, a son of the late Andrew and Susan (Benco) Ballas.
He was a coal miner at United States Steel for 50 years, and a member of the UMWA Robena Local 6321, Gates VFD and National Slovak Society and a Lutheran by faith.
Surviving are sons: George Ballas of Ambridge, Pa. and Dennis Ballas of Gates, Pa.; a daughter, Cynthia Ballas and husband, Sonny Richnafsky of Masontown, Pa.; and step daughters: Rose Marie Defino and husband, Clair Shick of Fort Wayne, Ind. and Jackie Defino Peters of Cannonsburg, Pa.; seven grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his first wife, Eva Parrish in 1939 and his second wife, Rose Ballas in 2004 and brothers, Andy, Mike, Bill and John and sister, Sophie.
He was the last surviving member of his family.
Friends will be received in the JOHN S. MAYKUTH, JR. FUNERAL HOME, Corner of Church and 7 River Avenue, Masontown, Pa., today from 7 to 9 p.m. and Friday, May 19, 2006, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.
A Funeral Service will be conducted in the JOHN S. MAYKUTH, JR., FUNERAL HOME CHAPLE on Saturday, May 20, 2006 at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Scott Teets officiating.
Interment will be in Saint Agnes Cemetery.
Donations may be made to Fort Mason Historic Society, Masontown, Pa. 15461.