Wanda (Erwin/Mitchell) Ballay, 89, of Valparaiso, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Tuesday December 9, 2025. Wanda was born on May 13, 1936, in Louisville, Illinois, to the late Opal and Pauline Erwin. Wanda was raised in Hobart and graduated from Hobart High School. While raising six children Wanda was involved in all aspects of her children’s school and social events, which included Hobart Pop Warner, Hobart Booster club, and PTA. Wanda retired after over 30 years of service with Wiseway Foods as a meat wrapper.
After retirement Wanda married the love of her life, Anthony Ballay, on May 1, 1999. Together they enjoyed traveling, fishing, and spending time with family and friends. After Tony’s passing, Wanda re-entered the workforce, working part-time at Burns Funeral Home and the Portage UPS store. Wanda enjoyed being with people and staying busy. Wanda was a member of the Grace Church of the Nazarene in Portage, Indiana where she enjoyed being a greeter and singing in the choir. Wanda often traveled to other churches to sing the Gospel of Jesus. Through life’s challenges Wanda found strength in her faith in Jesus. Wanda’s greatest joy was spending time with her grandkids and great grandkids. The last five years Wanda was a resident of Avalon Manor in Valparaiso, Indiana. Wanda enjoyed participating in all the activities, outings and social events. Wanda was so grateful for all the love and support she received.
Wanda is preceded in death by her parents, Opal and Pauline Erwin; husband, Tony Ballay; son, Steven Mitchell; grandson, Michael Spicer; and her son-in law, Mark (Randy) Maddack. She is survived by her daughters: Lori (Mark) Maddack, LaVonne (Tim) Yaros, Melia (Mark) Spicer, Renee Fitzgerald; and son, John Mitchell; 15 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; and dear friends, Micky and Mona Hovis.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff at Avalon Manor and Dunes Hospice for their exceptional care, compassion and support. Wanda’s strength and compassion will be deeply missed. Her presence and faith will forever live on in the memories and in the lessons she taught.
A visitation will be held on Monday, December 15, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso, IN, with a funeral service beginning at 6:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Wanda’s memory to Dunes Hospice.
