A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 28, 2026 for 72-year-old Howard Ballheimer, Jr. of Sparta, Illinois, who passed away at 10:50 p.m., Sunday, February 15, 2026 at Missouri Baptist Medical Center, St. Louis, Missouri.
He was born December 1, 1953 in Belleville, Illinois to Howard and Sylvia Ballheimer. They preceded him in death.
Howard married Deborah Vickers on May 3, 1986 in Rockwood, Illinois; she survives in Sparta, Illinois.
He is also survived by three daughters: Alexis (Joe) Cahoon of Steeleville, IL, Stephanie Ballheimer (Kenny Hassebrock) of Gorham, IL and Courtney Ballheimer of the state of Arizona; a brother: Gary (Victoria) Ballheimer of Clarmin, IL; seven grandchildren: Issac Conway, Samantha Ballheimer, Wesley Ballheimer- Hassebrock, Abel Hassebrock, Jaylyn Jausel, Tyson Wilkey and Elissa Wilkey; and three great grandchildren: Kaleb, Cambrie and Elizabeth.
He was also preceded in death by a daughter: Melissa Rose.
He had worked at Burning Star 4 coal mine in Cutler, Illinois until his retirement.
Howard was a member of Pleasant Ridge Church in Rockwood, Illinois.
He was a mechanic and enjoyed working on everything from lawn mowers to old cars.
Visitation will be 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026 at the Pechacek Funeral Homes in Chester, Illinois
A memorial service for 72-year-old Howard Ballheimer, Jr. of Sparta, Illinois, will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026 at the Pechacek Funeral Homes in Chester, Illinois. Officiating: Rev. Tom Klausing.
Memorials may be made to Family Choice.