Byron F. "JR" Bales, Jr., 63 of Mooreland, died Tuesday, October 28, 2003 at home following a brief illness.

He was born at Muncie on March 14, 1940 to Byron F. and Ruby (Barrett) Bales, Sr. He married Janet (Werking) Bales on September 10, 1961. She survives.

He was a lifelong farmer in the Mooreland community.

He was a volunteer fireman for the Mooreland Fire Department.

He had served on the Ag One Board of Directors.

He attended Mooreland Friends Church.

He also volunteered with the Mooreland Fair.

Other survivors include daughters Kimberly (Erick) VanMeter of Brookston, Melissa Ann Bales of Indianapolis, Len (Johnnie) Blevins of Wilkinson and Andrea (Kenny) Johnson of Mooreland; four grandchildren, four aunts and several cousins.

Funeral services were Thursday, October 30, at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle, with Carl Bennett officiating.

Burial was in Mooreland Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Little Door Cancer Services of Delaware County or the Mooreland Volunteer Fire Department.