Carl Vernon Ballew

Carl Vernon Ballew, age 69, of Sunrise Beach, Missouri, passed away Friday, October 25, 2019 at University Hospital in Columbia, Missouri. He was born July 6, 1950 in Eureka, California, a son of Joe Hugh and Audrey (Orbison) Ballew. On August 25, 1989, he was united in marriage to Merilee Esther Martin. Together they shared 30 years of marriage. Carl worked as an over-the-road truck driver for 43 years. In his retirement, he worked part-time as a driver for Laurie Care Center. Carl was proud to be clean and sober for the past 31 years. In his free time, he enjoyed riding his Indian motorcycle, fishing and playing poker. Most of all, he dearly loved his family. Survivors include his wife, Merilee Ballew of the home; three children, Jason Ballew of Salinas, California, Jennifer Ballew of Eureka, California and John Biggs of Jefferson City, Missouri; grandchildren, Alyissa Biggs, Dalin Ballew and Lacey Ballew; a brother, Ken Ballew of Eureka, California; and a host of other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Jimmy Ballew, Ron Ballew and Gary Ballew. A celebration of life will be held at 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 30, 2019 at Kidwell-Garber Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel. Visitation will be from 4:00-5:00 p.m. Wednesday in the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.kidwellgarber.com. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Kidwell-Garber Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel.