William M. Ballantyne

Known for his bright smile, compassion for others and his Scottish accent, William Mabbott Ballantyne passed away peacefully on Sept. 8, 2015. William (otherwise known as Bill or Scotty) was born in the Village of Linwood, Scotland on Dec. 23, 1945. He was the son of the late John W. and Margaret Ballantyne. He was the youngest of eight children.

William immigrated to the United States in 1967. Then in 1968, he met his soul mate, Connie Smith. On their fourth date, he asked her to marry him. They were married after the seventh date. They were married 48 wonderful years. Connie says, "in the midst of memory, you wander back to all of us." Just before their marriage, he was drafted into the United States Army where he received an honorable medical discharge. They made their home in New Jersey.

In 1973, they moved their family out west to Phoenix, Arizona where they raised their two daughters.

William is survived by his wife Connie Ballantyne; his daughters Bette and Barbara Ballantyne; and two lovely grandchildren Shelby Baxter and Jax Ballantyne. He is also survived by his brother John; and sister Barbara Ore.

He had dedicated his entire life to his undying love for his family.

Being of Scottish decent, he was obsessed with football (American Soccer). He played from when he was a toddler up until his 40s when injuries took him out of the game. He also coached a boys' team (The Jaguars) Westown Soccer Club. The team made it to the Arizona State Championship Tournament won the title of State Champions. He was an amazing and unforgettable player, coach and referee. A former player, had this to say about him after hearing the news of his passing, "he coached us during the greatest times of a person's life ... the years of innocents ... love you Bill ... if soccer is in heaven I want you to be my coach."

Along with his devotion to family, Bill enjoyed toying around his yard and home. He always had a wee smile on his face while sitting on the patio during storm weather. He also fancied a good game of poker. He and his wife actively participated in the Marine's Toys 4 Tots Foundation. They delighted in picking out toys for underprivileged children every month. Then around November, a representative would come out and pick up all the toys. The retired marine was always so amazed at the amount of toys they received. He said no one else he knew did this and that dad had a pure heart full of love and compassion for all.

Heaven gained a loving husband, outstanding father, finest grandfather, great brother and a Champion who will be sorrowfully missed by all.

There will be a reception immediately following at his family home.