Teodoro Abbott Ballesteros, 87, died Friday, May 20th, peacefully in his Phoenix home with his wife and family by his side. Teodoro, known by “Ted” by his friends and family, was born on July 18th, 1934, to Aurelia and Manuel Ballesteros. Ted grew up in the northern Arizona town of Clarkdale with his 3 siblings, Eloy, Ruth and Marie, later meeting his future wife Mary Ann.
At age 18, Ted enlisted in the United States Navy where he served in the Korean War, receiving a National Defense, Korean Service, and Korean Presidential Medal. After serving 4 years in the Navy, Ted went on to become an accomplished sheet metal worker in local 359 and started a family of his own with his wife Mary Ann. In his free time, Ted enjoyed spending time with his family, camping, fishing, hunting and watching sports. Ted will be remembered for his love of woodworking, collection of Hot Wheels, sheet metal projects, puzzles, unconditional support of his family and friends.
Ted lived an accomplished life, was loved by many and had an undeniable sense of humor you could never forget. He will be missed by his family and many friends.
Ted is survived by his wife Mary Ann, 3 children, Annette, Ted, and Cheryl: 8 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, from 10:00a.m. – 11:00a.m. with a funeral service beginning at 11:00a.m. at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. Interment to follow at St. Francis Cemetery in Phoenix.
A celebration of Ted’s life will be held at the American Legion Post 41 immediately following services.
Josie Winburne
Mary Ann and Family:
My condolences to each of you on your loss. I remember Ted as mellow, quiet, kind and just a very nice man.
I remember the vacation we took to Colorado with your family, my sister Carolina and Frank and Wilford and Evelyn in our trailers and campers. I know you and your family have suffered a great loss and he will be greatly missed. My prayers to you all that God gives you strength to get you through your grief and that you find peace in the many great memories you have.
Dina Perez
Hugs to my Aunt Mary Ann and my cousins, Annette, Ted and Cheryl. My uncle will be missed. He did so much for me growing up across the street. Taking me and Cheryl to all our softball practices and such. I have good memories of him and my dad 4 wheeling, camping,fishing and hunting. Such good times. I hope you find peace in knowing he’s with my dad in heaven fishing and hunting again together. Peace be with you all in Jesus name.