Christopher J. Ballew

Chris’s life began on June 26, 1950 in Benton Harbor, the son of Jefferson R. and Elizabeth M. (Rose) Ballew. He served his country in the United States Army from 1970-1971. Chris was a citizen of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, serving in many roles for the nation. He was a traditional tribal dancer and singer, a member of the salary commission, tribal council, substance abuse, housing, and reparation and language committee. Chris enjoyed photography, kayaking, camping, biking and generally being outdoors. He was united in marriage to the former Stephanie Cole on August 24, 1994 in Niles. His loving family includes his wife Stephanie of Edwardsburg, children Kristine (Scott) Johnson of St. Joseph, Jesse D. Ballew of South Bend, and Edward J. (Jennifer) Mayo of Holland, grandchildren Madeline, Samuel, Eloise, Samantha and Bridget, brothers and sisters Jefferson R. (Jessica) Ballew III, Gregory D. (Renda) Ballew, Randolph E. ( Susan) Ballew, Katherine (James) Crouch, Lynn Ballew, Karen (Frank) Hinegardner, Gary A. Ballew, Richard J. (Monica) Ballew, James W. (Barbara Ann) Ballew, Douglas R. Ballew, and Laura (David) Sharkey, and several nieces and nephews. Chris passed away at his home on Monday October 8, 2012. His family will gather with friends at his home (26624 Main St. Edwardsburg) on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Funeral services will be held for Chris on Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Pokagon Community Center (Dailey Road, Dowagiac) led by Elder Robert Moody. He will be laid to rest in Rush Lake Cemetery, Hartford following the funeral ceremonies. Memorial contributions in Chris’s name may be directed to the Center for the Homeless (South Bend). Yazel & Clark Chapel is serving the family. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Chris at www.yazel-clark.com