David Wayne Ball passed away on Monday, October 26 at the age of 79 in Portland, Oregon after succumbing to dementia-related health issues.

David was born in Ilwaco, Washington, the first son of James Ball and Peggy (Aho) Ball. He was raised in Astoria, Oregon. Growing up he often worked jobs related to the fishing community, including working on his grandfather’s fishing boat and helping his mother, who worked in the fish canneries. He attended Arlington High School in Arlington, Oregon and Astoria High School where he played football and basketball, graduating in 1966.

After graduation David served his country by enlisting in the US Army, serving two tours of duty in Vietnam in an engineering division.

Upon returning home he met the love of his life, Sandra Friberg, an elementary school teacher from Portland, who was working in Astoria at the time. That same day he told his mother he met the woman he was going to marry. His premonition proved true when the two were wed on June 16, 1973, in Astoria.

The couple moved to Portland, where David began a career as a skilled foundryman at ESCO steel company that lasted over 35 years. It was here that they welcomed their children and built their life together.

The epitome of a dedicated family man, David rarely missed any of his kids’ sporting events, band concerts or scouting events. Along with Sandra he was a stable presence in their church community, always willing to lend a hand with maintenance and church functions. His biggest passion was in motor sports. For decades he was a fixture at Portland International Raceway (PIR) where he volunteered to work in flagging and response, ensuring the safety of drivers on the track. His love of auto racing grew into a family pastime as his wife and children were also involved in the racing community.

In retirement David spent time with his grandchildren as well as caring for his wife who was battling ovarian cancer. Sandra passed in 2016 on their 43rd wedding anniversary. David will be remembered for his gentle demeanor and his dry sense of humor. He was quick with a joke and even quicker to lend a hand to his friends and neighbors.

David is preceded in death by his parents, Peggy and James; his sister, Linda; and his wife, Sandra. David is survived by his brother, Michael; his three children, Keith, Jeanette and Eric; and four grandchildren. Our family is comforted that David and his beloved Sandra are now peacefully reunited.

The family is planning a celebration of life, which is expected to take place in February 2027. More details will be shared once arrangements are finalized.