George Ballas, age 82, of Shelton, entered into rest on Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at Lord Chamberlain Nursing Center in Stratford. He was the beloved husband of the late Barbara Johnson Ballas. George was born in Bridgeport on June 21, 1924, son of the late James and Irene Dakoy Ballas and moved from Bridgeport to his house in Shelton in 1957. He was a tool designer for the Ready Tool Company in Stratford for more than 46 years until his retirement in 1993. An avid country and western fan, George was a skilled guitarist and he regularly played with many local area musicians. He was a beloved father. He is survived by two brothers, Steven Ballas of Monroe and Nicholas Ballas of Oxford; a sister, Betty Syvertson of Universal City, Texas; two cherished grandchilden and several nieces and nephews. He will also be sadly missed by his cherished Yorkshire Terrier companion, Spunky. George was predeceased by a brother, John Ballas, and a sister, Helen Allen. The family would like to extend their grateful appreciation to the nursing staff of the Bridgeport Hospital Seventh Floor Richardson Wing and Lord Chamberlain's Third Floor for their exceptional care and compassion. Friends may greet the family in the Riverview Funeral Home, 390 River Road, Shelton on Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. A funeral service will be held in the Riverview Funeral Home on Saturday at 10 a.m. with Rev. Betsy Reed of the United Church of Christ of Bridgeport officiating. Burial will follow at Mountain Grove Cemetery in Bridgeport. Contributions can be made to the United Church of Christ, 963 Laurel Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604 or through the funeral director. Offer condolences to the family at www.riverviewfh.com.
Published in Connecticut Post on Mar. 1, 2007