Obituary of Allistair Merryck Ball

Allistair Merryck Ball was born in Durban, South Africa on 9th, July 1943. Allistair’s family, with aching hearts, announce the sudden loss of their beloved Husband, Father, Grandpa and Friend, at midnight on Friday 18th, September 2020. Al leaves behind his beloved wife Wendy of 60 years, and his deeply loved family. His children Tracey and Erik, Brad and Barbs, sister-in-law Terry (Danny), the grandchildren he adored - Rachel, Tim and Nikola, Josh, Ashleigh and Emily, and many dearly loved nieces, nephews and close friends. Predeceased by his parents Victor and Daphne Ball, his sister Wendy (Bill), his loving in-laws Bernie and Hazel Hill and sister-in-law Lynne. Al loved Wendy, his children and grandchildren more than anything in the world and the years of fun, laughter, family events and holidays together brought him the greatest joy. For them too he was a fun Grandpa. Al’s adventurous spirit led him to Karoi, Rhodesia at the age of 17 to farm with family. It was there that he met the love of his life Wendy and they embarked on a lifetime of love and laughter. Al’s love of nature led to many exciting adventures with his family in the Zambezi Valley - often risky and off the beaten track - a common thread throughout his life. Al’s leadership qualities and his way with people served him well as a decorated Major in the Rhodesian Military (5RR / RLI). His military experiences prepared him for the launch of his entrepreneurial business pursuits incorporating wide international travel. Al moved his family to Cape Town, South Africa in 1985 continuing his travels throughout Southern Africa. In 1999 Al and Wendy moved to Canada to join their family where Al embarked upon a successful new career in property management. In British Columbia Al continued to embrace his love of nature and fishing. Following a life altering workplace accident, Al embraced the opportunity to participate in voluntary conservation efforts specifically involving the rivers of BC and the protection of the salmon habitat. Al served as Vice President of BC Federation of Drift Fishers (BCFDF), Board member of Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) and was active in liaison with First Nations communities. Most recently, Al was instrumental in supporting the successful implementation of the Big Bar initiative on the lower Fraser River enabling the continued migration and preservation of wild salmon for generations to come. Al’s caring heart and sense of humour endeared him to all. He was generous and big hearted; his presence filled the room. Throughout his life Al was undaunted in the face of adversity, and faced health challenges in recent years with courage and tenacity. Now safe in the arms of Jesus. But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31 Due to current circumstances, service details are yet to be determined. Flowers and donations not necessary, feel free to leave a message for the family over on the tribute wall.