Little League® International mourns the passing of Mitch Ball, a longtime Little League Canada umpire, who officiated games in the 2002 Little League Baseball® World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. He was 47.
Mr. Ball, a resident of Coaldale, Alberta, Canada, began his volunteer service to Little League as a junior umpire in Lethbridge, Alberta. Years later, he proudly represented Little League Canada at Howard J. Lamade Stadium, as the plate umpire for the 2002 Little League Baseball® World Series United States Championship Game. Throughout his life, he supported Little League umpires as a mentor and educator.
“All of us at Little League International in Williamsport, and the Little League World Series are extremely saddened by Mitch’s passing,” said Stephen D. Keener, Little League President and CEO. “He was first and foremost a husband and father, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his family and many friends. It’s a real gut punch to lose someone so young, especially someone who has given so much to the Little League program.”
On the field, Mr. Ball officiated in several baseball organization throughout Canada. Of note, he umpired seven Baseball Canada Championships and three international events, including the 2015 Pan-Am Games.
Mr. Ball is survived by his wife, Jana; children, Colton, Bailey, Halle, Brett, Macey, and Margo; parents, Sheldon and Brenda Ball; sisters, Marina, Catherine, and Susanne; and brother, Jeff.