Family Remembers 22-Year-Old With Balloon Release After Drowning At Keystone Lake

The family and friends of a young Tulsa man who drowned at Keystone Lake over the weekend gathered to celebrate his life on Monday.

Friends and family released balloons to honor Joseph Ballard, who was only 22. They say they'll miss his energy and funny personality the most.

Related Story: Oklahoma Troopers Reports 2 Drownings In Green Country Over The Weekend

People who knew Joseph Ballard, all called him "Jojo." They said he was the life of the party with a big personality and could light up a room.

"He was a good person," said Kaymisha Julius.

Ballard's sister Kaymisha Julius said her brother loved playing sports and video games and he loved being at the lake with his friends. She says he was constantly cracking jokes and making everyone happy.

"I love my brother, I really do," Julius said.

Ballard's good friend Micah Swake said they were out at a cove near Prue at Keystone Lake and went swimming without a life vest Sunday. It's a spot they go to frequently. He said Ballard began struggling and panicking in the water.

"We all were swimming and he started running out of breath," Swake said. "He panicked and I tried to grab him it was too late."

Swake said it was horrible and he already misses his friend.

"He was strong, smart, he never gave up," Swake said.

On Monday afternoon Ballard's closest friends all wrote him messages on balloons to send off in one of his favorite places. Troopers said Ballard's death is the 13th drowning this year in Oklahoma. They urge people to be safe on the water and always wear a life jacket.

"We're never going to forget him."