Elmer William Baller

July 25, 1934 - February 8, 2017

Captain Elmer William Baller, USN Ret., 82, died on February 8, 2017 in Edinburg, Texas from acute leukemia. He was born July 25, 1934 in Belknap, Michigan to William and Florence Baller. He enlisted in the United States Navy on August 21, 1952. After twelve years enlisted status, he was commissioned on March 1, 1965, becoming a Navy “Mustang”. He went on to serve three tours in Vietnam and many varied duty assignments ultimately advancing to the rank of Captain (O-6). After 40 years of service Captain Baller retired with the United States Navy in 1992. His last duty station was the Defense Nuclear Agency in Alexandria, Virginia as Director for Command Services providing support in military/civilian personnel, manpower, logistics, engineering, technical information, intelligence and security, and exchanging atomic information with NATO countries. He was a decorated veteran receiving numerous awards and medals throughout his career, including the Defense Superior Service medal; Meritorious Service medal (2); Navy Commendation medal with “V” (valor); Combat Action Ribbon; Meritorious Unit Commendation(2); Good Conduct medal (3); Navy Occupation Medal (Europe); National Defense Service medal with three bronze stars; Vietnam Service Medal with Five stars; Vietnam Campaign Medal; Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Unit citation (gallantry cross); Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Unit citation. Captain Baller was a member of the following: Disabled Veterans Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, Navy Mustang Association and the USS Saint Paul Association. He served as a former Michigan VFW State Legislative Chairman and District 13 Commander. Outside of his military service, Captain Baller enjoyed being a multi-engine, instrument rated private pilot, traveling, riding motorcycles, and drinking Miller Lite. He spent many summers joyfully driving his pontoon boat for his loving grandchildren, despite the fact that he could not swim. He spent hours in the wood shop crafting beautiful pieces for the yachts he owned and lived on. He claimed he did not need the digit he cut off in a wood working accident, in fact, he enjoyed showing off his shortened middle finger. His late life routine included a daily nap, can of beer and Western movie, around 4pm. In the last several years, Captain Baller had received his Real Estate license and enjoyed spending time talking to people. He was an excellent dancer and shared 35 adventure filled, loving, and dedicated years with his wife and soul-mate, Patsy. Captain Baller has three daughters, Terri and Dori Carlson living in California and Sherri Leyden in West Virginia. He also has two sons, Michael Bailey living in Maryland and David Kelly living in Ohio. He is survived by four sisters, Wanda Crooks, Bonnie Hincka, Sandra Marshall and Bernadine Hincka of Posen, Michigan and was preceded in death by two brothers, Kenny and Mark Baller. He leaves behind his loving wife, Patsy. Captain Baller will be interned at the Arlington National Cemetery.