Fred BallardFred Everett Ballard, born on May 26, 1946 in Chicago, Illinois, passed away on March 11, 2025 in Highland Park, Illinois at the age of 78.He is survived by his wife Linda, his children, Jennifer (Jason) Griffin and David (Gina) Ballard, and his four grandchildren, Hank and Eddie Griffin, and Heath and Penny Ballard. He was predeceased by his parents, Foster and Ruth (nee Mason) Ballard.Fred grew up in Rogers Park (graduating from Sullivan High School in 1964), and lived in Evanston, Winnetka, and Highland Park throughout his life. As a young man, he followed his love for books when he worked at Barbara's Bookstore and Kroch's & Brentano's until he started his career as a computer programmer and software developer. The challenge of using his math brain drove him to solve problems and create what was needed. When it came to technology, Fred was an early adopter.Fred married the love of his life, Linda, in 1990. Watching old movies, going out to restaurants, visiting