Lela Mae Ballard

Lela Mae Ballard, born on March 21, 1926, in Osakis Township, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025. A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Lela was a beacon of love and selflessness to all who knew her.

Lela's early years were marked by her hard work as a waitress before she took a break to dedicate herself to raising her nine children. Upon returning to her career at the age of 54, she found joy in waitressing at the Garden Center in Alexandria, where she continued to share her warmth and kindness with patrons for another 25 years.

Education was important to Lela, as she proudly graduated from Alexandria High School. Her life was a testament to her deep faith and her commitment to serving others, always putting family first and giving abundantly to those in need. Her personality shone brightly; Lela was revered as one of the most selfless people one could ever meet.

Lela loved the outdoors and took pleasure in the simple act of walking, often opting to go on foot rather than accept rides. It is said that she must have walked a million miles throughout her lifetime, a reflection of her love for the outdoors and nature. In addition to her walks, she cherished reading her Bible and other books, while listening to records in her earlier years.

Her life was shaped significantly by her loving relationships. Lela married her first husband, Jerome Legoo, in 1947, sharing a beautiful marriage until his passing. She later married William Ballard in 1952, continuing her journey of love and companionship. Lela leaves behind a legacy of family, including: 8 children Deanna Knudson, Carolyn Fedorak, Rose (Bob) Beitz, Jim (Bernadette) Ballard, J.R. Ballard, Rebecca (Mario) Chavez, Andrea (Mike) Kelnhofer, and Ray Ballard, 18 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 15 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward her spirit of generosity and faith.

Lela was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Etha Resley; her husbands, Jerome Legoo and William Ballard; her son, Patrick Ballard; granddaughters Crystal Fedorak, Pricilla Fedorak, and Trina Hubenette; great-granddaughter Shanna Hubenette; her brother, Bud Resley; sister-in-law Shirley Resley; and sons-in-law Larry Knudson and Zorro Fedorak.

A visitation in honor of Lela will take place on December 22, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at the Anderson Funeral Home and Crematory located at 659 Voyager Drive NW, Alexandria, MN 56308.

Lela Mae Ballard will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but her legacy of love, service, and unyielding faith will forever remain in their hearts.