James Paul Ballog Sr

Age 85, a resident of Albuquerque, passed away unexpectedly Friday, October 11, 2013. Jim was born July 21, 1928, in Homestead, PA to Paul V. and Helen (Jacobs) Ballog. Jim's wife of 59 years, June (Koval) Ballog, preceded him in death. Jim attended Schwab Technical School and began working at U.S. Steel when he was 14. He joined the U.S. Navy as a teenager and served aboard the USS Vicennes during World War II. Jim moved to New Mexico in 1961 and worked at ACF and retired from General Electric as a machinist. Jim was an avid hunter, and fish quivered in fear before him. He was a talented and generous cook, so Jim's friends and family never went hungry. He loved to travel, was a Pittsburgh Steelers fan and was active at St. Charles Borremeo Catholic Church, where he sang in the choir. Jim was lucky to find love later with his beloved Marjie Marler. Survivors include his children, James Jr., Nancy, Jeff, Amy, and Tracy; siblings Louise, Jean, Rich, Paul and Tom; his favorite, Aunt Adeline; nine grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Rosary will be recited Wednesday, October 16, 2013, 7:00 p.m., at FRENCH - Wyoming, with visitation to begin at 6:00 p.m. Mass will be Celebrated Thursday, October 17, 2013, 10:00 a.m., at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 1818 Coal Pl. SE. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.