REA BALLARD RAGATZ

passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at Brighten Gardens in Denver, Colo. on March 11, 2009. She was 98.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, Roy, who died on the tennis court in Green Valley in 1989. She is survived by her children Alice Rea (William Bruce White, deceased) of Toronto, Canada, John Ballard (Nancy Markham) of Denver, Margaret Louise “Peggy” (David Alan Gaarder) of Madison, Wis.; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Rea was born in Washington, D.C. on Aug. 12, 1910, grew up in Virginia and graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1931, where she majored in art and design. She pursued her love of art at home in Madison while the children were growing up and later returned to the university to take refresher courses. It was at this time that Rea decided to focus on the medium of watercolor. Active in art circles, Rea went on to become president of the Madison Art Center.

In 1977, Rea and Roy moved permanently to Green Valley where they had spent their winter months previously. Rea continued her painting in the Southwest, winning many regional awards and displaying in one woman shows. She was active in the Snow Bird Art Gallery in Green Valley both as an administrator, as well as a contributing artist. She also loved to play tennis.

If desired, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Rea Ragatz’s name.