William “Bill” Ball, 81, former Cutchogue, NY, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at his home in Spring Hill, Florida.
Bill was born and raised in Peconic, Long Island. He was preceded by his parents John and Evelen Bauer, his siblings Frances Pafford and John Bauer Jr., and his ex-wife Karan Bauer. He leaves behind four beloved children, Rebecca (Eugene) Christian of Dunellon, NJ. Tabitha (Marshall) Lyon of Decatur, Georgia; and Rachele Bauer and Matthew (Anna) Bauer, both of Del Mar, New York. Bill is also the proud grandfather of Nicholas, Emily, and Alexander Christian; John and Luke Lyons; and Catherine and Charlotte Bauer.
Bill attended the Southold school system until he left at age 17 to assist the family potato farm full-time. He continued to farm with his father and uncle Ralph Bauer until 1980. Bill sold the farm and started an independent machinery business specializing in agricultural and industrial equipment. Bill is known to be a natural mechanic who can fix just about anything. Clients appreciate his ingenuity and dedication to his work. No matter the time of day or weather conditions, Bill never hesitates to help. Bill’s business continued to prosper until April 1995, when a work accident left him a quadriplegic.
Bill didn’t let that injury define him. He remains active in his social circle and family. He continues to have a passion for life, even traveling the country, which has been his lifelong dream. Bill moved to Florida full-time in 2020 where he spends time with friends and enjoys activities at his retirement community.
Bill’s viewing will be held at the DeFriest-Grattan Funeral Home in Southold on Tuesday, May 9th from 4-7pm. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 10am on Wednesday 10 May, followed by services at St Patrick RC Church Cemetery in Southold. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Christopher Reeve Foundation.
This is a paid notice.
