It is with great sadness we report that Daniel Ballard passed away on January 6th, 2021 in Raleigh, North Carolina at age 62 of an apparent heart attack. The loss was sudden, and he is and will be missed immensely.

Dan is remembered as caring, clever, funny, opinionated, and intelligent. A fount of knowledge in innumerable areas such as history, earth based spirituality, music, and nature. Full of groan-worthy jokes, endless curiosity, and a loving family member in blood and chosen families alike.

He had several career paths in his life, each he gave his all. Dan spent time as a sports writer in his home state of Texas, a drafter for Boeing in Washington where he lived for many years with his late wife, Cathy, and child Rainier. He also served his community as a bus driver transporting disabled folks where they needed to go. Dan was politically passionate and a strong advocate for social justice. He was an active and beloved part of his community at Woodinville Unitarian Universalist Church.

Dan is survived by his offspring, Rainier Olivier, his father, David Ballard, and his sisters Betty Ballard Irvine, and Peggy Ballard Parker, as well as his chosen family Darrell and Karen Wilson and their children, with whom he lived before he passed.

Dan had many friends and loved ones who have reached out and expressed interest in helping out. Any donations to this gofundme will help Dan’s family with bills, day-to-day expenses and shipping costs of moving some of his possessions back to Washington. 

Thank you so much for all of the support we have already received. We have seen so many people that knew Dan reaching out with memories and kind words. Any donations to this gofundme are very much appreciated!