Birthplace: Des Moines, IA Resided In: Red Oak, IA Lester Herbert "Old Man" Ballard, age 70, of Red Oak, Iowa, passed away Thursday, January 27, 2022, at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital. Les was born May 27, 1951, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of Louie and Ila Ballard. He was raised in Des Moines graduating from North High School. He served in the United States Air Force during Vietnam and returned home to Des Moines after his military service. Les eventually moved to the Elliott, Iowa area and later Red Oak, Iowa. He was united in marriage to Renee Johnson Etter on October 28, 1999. They made their home in rural Red Oak. Over the years, Les worked for Douglas and Lomason Co., Interwest, Harrah's Casino for 10 years, and Poet Biorefining where he retired. He loved fast cars, restoring cars, fishing, and spending time with his family. Preceding him in death were his parents; son: Ryan Ballard, grandson, Tyler Gobert, and brother: Lucky Ballard. Survivors include his wife: Renee Ballard of Red Oak; children: Brandy Howard and husband Brian of Las Vegas, NV; Shawn Soar of Red Oak; Lester Ballard of Omaha, NE; Chad Etter and significant other Jen Appley of Griswold, IA; and Jeff Etter of Atlantic, IA; grandchildren: Brianna and Faith Stevens; Olivia, Nevaeh, and Ryan Soar; Jake, Dawson, Maddie, Gavin, and Ridge Ballard; Alexa Roberson and husband Nathan; and Karley and Faith Appley; great grandchildren: Kayden and Mia Ballard; and Ava and Greyson Roberson; brother: Pete Ballard of Des Moines, IA; and many other relatives and friends. A celebration of life viewing and visitation will be held from 5-7 PM Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel. Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.