Pension Action

January 30, 2008

The Pension Rights Center joins retirement security advocates throughout the country in mourning the death of Robert M. Ball, the nation’s foremost champion of Social Security, who died on January 29 at the age of 93. Bob Ball served on the Center’s Board for 20 years, from 1984 until 2004, when he moved to emeritus status. Bob generously shared his extraordinary intelligence, expertise and warm wit with Center staff and Board members, always providing a fresh perspective on retirement income issues.

"Bob was an inspiration to all of us," said Nancy Altman, PRC Board Chair and the author of The Battle for Social Security. "He was an innovator, a man of true vision, and a brilliant thinker and writer who continued throughout his life to offer by far the most creative, thoughtful and pragmatic solutions to strengthen Social Security."

Bob began his long career with the Social Security Administration in 1939, eventually serving as a Commissioner of Social Security from 1962-1973. Although he was best known as for his untiring advocacy for social insurance programs, Bob was also fiercely committed to strengthening pensions and retirement savings programs to ensure adequate incomes for older adults. In 1986, he founded the National Academy of Social Insurance, a research organization committed to continuing his legacy.  

"Bob Ball was the wisest of the wise," said Center Director Karen Ferguson. "He was truly our hero. We will miss him deeply."

Read more about Bob's extraordinary life and career.