Emer Lewis Ball

Emer Lewis Ball, 67, of Menan, Idaho, died Friday, October 16, 2020 of natural causes.  Emer was born on January 23, 1953 to Emer Alma and Ina Perry Ball in Rexburg, Idaho.  Emer attended schools in Rexburg.

After high school Emer married the love of his life, LeeAnn Martin Ball, on July 3, 1973 on her family’s farm in Menan.

Emer and LeAnn had such an amazing and inspiring relationship.  They loved traveling around the state together participating in parades and show events with their draft horse and buggy.  They received multiple awards and ribbons for their matching outfits and beautiful presentation of their draft horse ‘Charlie Brown’ and restored buggies.  LeAnn passed away December 20, 2010.

Emer started his working career at Madison County as a heavy equipment operator.  Later he went to work for his father-in-law, Vernon Martin, at Vernon Martin Trucking Company.  At Vernon Martin, Emer took pride and specialized in repairing all types of farm vehicles and equipment including semi-trucks, passenger trucks, cars and trailers of all kinds.  It is at Vernon Martin that he became the mentor and friend to his nephew, Kelly Shaw.  Emer and Kelly shared the love and talent for restoring classic cars and trucks.  They spent many weekends traveling with the Eastern Idaho Early Iron Car Club to car shows throughout Idaho and Wyoming.

After potato prices took a significant downturn, the Martin family farm was sold and Emer went to work for Arnold Machinery in Idaho Falls.  It was at Arnold Machinery that Emer and LeeAnn made a lifelong friendship with Teresa Fortner.  Teresa took such great care of Emer and was always there for him whenever needed.

Emer later went to work for Taylor Farms as shop foreman where he retired just a month before his death.  Emer built many great working relationships at Taylor Farms.  One of those relationships that he built at Taylor Farms became one of his best friends, John Phillip.

Emer had a smile that could light up the room, was a great friend to all that were blessed to know him and gave the most amazing “Emer hugs.”

Emer is survived by two sisters, Priscilla Shaw and Bonnie Ball, both of Idaho Falls, 5 nephews and 7 nieces and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Emer was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, two sisters, three nephews and one niece.

Emer will be laid to rest next to LeAnn in the Spencer, Idaho Cemetery.  A celebration of life will be held for family and friends at a later date.