Shawn Michael Balla

Shawn Michael Balla of Santa Barbara died suddenly on August 14, 2009. He was 44.

Shawn was born to John and Barbara Balla on March 7, 1965, in Acworth, NH. He went to local schools, then attended Keene State College in New Hampshire.

Shawn moved to Santa Barbara in 1990 with his partner, the late Sean McCartney. Shawn later moved to San Francisco, then to Palm Springs.

In 2006, he was happy to return to Santa Barbara and work at the Rehabilitation Institute of Santa Barbara. Most recently, Shawn was the facility manager and event coordinator at the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum.

Those wishing to make contributions in Shawn’s memory may send them to Pacific Pride Foundation or Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Remembrances may be posted on Facebook at Shawn Michael Balla Remembered

Shawn is survived by his parents and grandparents, his brother Frank, his nephew Alex, and his niece Taylor. He is dearly missed by a wide circle of friends everywhere.

A memorial service is planned for a later date.