John E. Kall

Published in The Plain Dealer from 6/21 to 6/22/2009

JOHN E. KALL, age 83, formerly of Maple Hts., died peacefully on the morning of Friday, June 19, 2009 in Columbus. Born on Aug. 13,1925 in Cleveland to Stephen and Matilda (nee Zoldak) Kall.

John is survived by his loving wife of 56 years Billie (nee Bank) Kall, formerly of Keokuk, IA; his five children: Linda (Rob) Simmons of Wester-ville, Robert (Gayle) Kall of Aurora, Joanne (Darrell) Pettit of Garfield Hts., James (Randy Mulville) Kall of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and Mary Kall of Westerville. John was a proud grandfather of Christopher, Steven and Matthew Simmons, who loved him dearly.

He is also survived by sisters Florence Zygmunt and Dorothy Gromovsky, both of Cleveland, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Stephen and William and sister Mary Carroll.

John grew up in the Cleveland area and was a graduate of East Technical High School. At age 20, John began a career in professional baseball in the Cleveland Indians farm system.

In 1954, he began a 23 year scouting career with the Indians, Orioles, Senators, and Royals. He continued to play ball until age 75 with the Babes of 1916. He was a member of the world championship team in 1995.

John spent many years as a welding salesman, an instructor and a professional welder. He was also a member of the former St. Wenceslas Catholic Church and the Maple Hts. Catholic Club.

John was a gardener and woodcraftsman and a avid Cleveland Indians and Ohio State Buckeyes fan.

The family wishes to thank the numerous caregivers who brought John comfort during his struggle with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases, as well as neighbors, friends and family for their love and support.

Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer`s Association Central, Ohio Chapter, 3380 Tremont Rd., Columbus, 43221 or donate on their website at www.alz.org/centralohio.

Friends may call at the FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME, 356 W. AURORA RD. (RT. 82) SAGAMORE HILLS FOR VISITATION MONDAY 2-4 AND 6-9 P.M.

Funeral Tuesday 11 a.m. at the Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial 11:30 a.m. at St. Barnabas Catholic Church. Interment All Saints Cemetery.