Brett Ballard

Brett Lee Ballard, 27, Lee's Summit, MO passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, January 24, 2011, at his home. He was born on July 24, 1983 in Kansas City, MO. He was preceded in death by his father Bradford C. Ballard in 1990 and grandparents, Richard E. and Donna Ballard. He is survived by his mother Lynn Ballard and fiancé Jim Stuckey of Independence; sister, Blair Ballard of Independence; grandparents, Lee and Pat Hanssen of Lee's Summit; Frances Hetrick of Independence; aunts, Lana (Jack) Wright of Lee's Summit; Laura (Mark) Textor of Blue Springs; uncle, Tim Hanssen of Blue Springs; cousins Jennifer, Brad, Megan, Nathan, Kyle, Carlie, Jeremy, Justin and Taylor and many loving family members and friends. Since becoming confined to a wheelchair at the age of 7 due to an automobile accident, Brett stayed true to a saying of his as a small boy, "I will." He graduated from Truman High School in 2001, from Avila University in 2008 with a Bachelor's in Business, and from Rockhurst University in 2010 with a Master's in Business Administration. Brett was truly an inspiration to countless people, making a lasting impression on all who knew him, and even those who knew his story but never met him. He made it his goal in life to defy all expectations and was proud to do it. Brett loved to travel the world, even by himself, and loved Europe most of all. He was an extraordinarily strong person, both physically and in will, who would not let anything get in his way. He loved adventure, from scuba diving to taking his gun to the shooting range. Brett was a person who was there for anyone who needed help, ready to lend a hand. Brett will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday, January 29th, at St. Matthew's Lutheran Church, 700 NE Chipman RD, Lee's Summit, MO. Burial will precede the service at Floral Hills Cemetery, Raytown, MO. Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at St. Matthews. Donations can be made in Brett's honor to Shriners Hospital, 2211 N. Oak Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60707.