Thomas Ball

Tom passed away peacefully, accompanied by family, in Rochester, NY on June 17, 2025 at age 88. He was predeceased by his parents, James “Blinky” and Elizabeth Ball, and his sister, Mary Alice Ball. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Geraldine Ball; sons, James (Christina), Thomas (Traci) and Patrick Ball; grandchildren, Eliza, Ethan and Justin; sister Catherine Estabrooks (Don), and his niece, nephews and many dear friends. Also with special gratitude the family acknowledges the incredible support of Leslie Schoenthal, Jim Szczesniak, Paul Estabrooks, David and Sue Rumfola , and Mary and Richard Prinzi.
Tom was a graduate of Caledonia-Mumford Central School, where he lettered in four varsity sports, and of his beloved University of Notre Dame, where he received his B.S. in Commerce in 1958. He also proudly served as a member of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.
He took over the Caledonia Lumber & Coal Co., founded by his father in 1929, and expanded the business greatly over the course of four decades. For years he was an admired civic leader in his hometown of Caledonia and in the regional business community, holding leadership positions with the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association and the New York State Republican Committee. He generously contributed to St. Columba Church and other local organizations, and helped small business owners get started and become successful, all while providing constant, loving support to his three sons.
He had boundless energy and passion for the lumber and construction trades, so as a “second act” to his long and fulfilling career, he became a successful sales representative for 84 Lumber Co., serving appreciative and loyal customers and mentoring younger colleagues for over a quarter century. Along the way, Tom read voraciously, traveled, took in Buffalo Bills, Fighting Irish and his grandkids’ ball games, enjoyed wine, music and cheerfully meeting new people, young and old, wherever he went. Indeed, he was the consummate “people person,” always eager to connect, share ideas and lend a helping hand.
Tom’s deeply appreciative family and friends take solace in having enjoyed him at full, loud, colorful, unfailingly kind and generous strength for so many years. Rest well, Tom -- the pipes, the pipes are calling, 'tis you must go and we must abide...though we’ll always remember with broad smiles!
A memorial service to celebrate Tom’s life will be held at 10 AM August 9, 2025 at St.. Martin de Porres Parish St. Columba Church 198 North Street Caledonia, NY. Interment to follow St.Columba Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to
[St. Francis Friends of the Poor https://www.stfrancisfriends.org/donate/donate ].