Donald (Don) Ball (1956,O) died peacefully on the evening of 23^rd July at his home in Noordhoek.  

Don was born on 26 February 1940 in Port Elizabeth. He attended Western Province Prep, followed by Bishops Diocesan College. He matriculated in 1956 at the age of 16 with a distinction in mathematics and then did a post-matric year. He was a life member of the Old Diocesans Union.

At the blessing of Don’s ashes, Bishop Chris Gregorowski, lifelong friends from school, included the following words:

”Don, we bless you by giving thanks to God for your life as a loving husband and father, academic of distinction, teacher, loyal colleague and friend. Don, we rejoice in your kindness and willingness to serve and to exercise your many gifts for the welfare of others.” 

Don married Anne Williams in 1962, and they had 3 children together, David, Trevor and Libbi. Later he married Sally Lowman, and together they had Juliette and Christopher. He is survived by Sally and all his children. He was a loving father who supported his children through all the ups and downs of family life.

Don developed his Constantia plot over a number of years of hard work into a large family home where many celebrations were held. He loved his garden spending many hours developing the orchard and vegetable garden.

Don attended UCT from 1958 where he majored in physics. He was awarded his Degree of Bachelor of Science in 1961 and got his honours in Physics in 1963. This was later followed by doctoral studies at Monash University in Australia. He was awarded his PhD in 1972 for a Doctorate of Philosophy in Physics. He returned to Cape Town after his stint in Australia and joined the UCT Physics department where he spent the balance of his career.

Don was a man of great talent and dedication, leaving a lasting impact on the UCT Physics Department. He quickly became a remarkable educator. In the late 1960s, while many lecturers gave complex and confusing seminars, he had a unique gift for simplifying difficult physics concepts. His ability to build on basic principles made his lectures clear and accessible to all students, from those just starting their studies to those tackling advanced topics like quantum physics.

Don was also a trusted advisor on academic matters, his wisdom, common sense, and caring nature made him an invaluable presence in the department. He took four sabbatical years to further his research work in England and Australia.

While at Monash, Don was awarded his half colours for squash, a sport in which he remained active throughout his life. He qualified as a national referee for the Southern African Squash Referees Association and chaired the rules sub-committee from 1997. 

With thanks to Juliette and Sally Ball for this lovely tribute.