James Edward "Jeb" Ball IV

James Edward Ball IV, known affectionately as Jeb, of Eagle River, Wisconsin, passed away on March 5, 2026, after a courageous struggle following complications from surgery. Born on November 4, 1953, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to James Edward Ball III and Mary Frances Ball (nee Featherston), he was a devoted family man who cherished his relationships above all else.

Jeb is survived by his wife of 34 years, Elena L. Ball (nee Bryant), his daughters Katie Reynolds (Aaron) and Melissa Parsons (Shea), his sister Tracey Ball, and five beloved grandchildren, Isaac and Nia Reynolds, and Joey, Jeb, and Frank Parsons. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law Randy Petty.

He loved the Northwoods and fulfilled a longtime dream when he and Elena purchased their home on the Eagle River chain in 2016. An avid golfer and fisherman, Jeb was a die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fan who realized a bucket-list wish by attending the team’s victory in Super Bowl LVIII in 2024. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his grandchildren. A 1971 graduate of Urbandale High School, he enjoyed a long career as Managing Director of the Midwest division of XF Enterprises for 30 years before retiring in 2019. He was a respected leader, mentor, and friend to many.

Jeb had a rare gift for making people feel important. A gracious and kind host, he and Elena welcomed family and friends into their home in Des Moines, Iowa for many years. An exceptional listener with a sincere interest in others, he was also a gifted storyteller with a wonderful sense of humor. Above all, Jeb simply loved his friends and family, and they loved him in return. He will be deeply and profoundly missed.