Robert “Bob” Ballenger was born Nov. 14, 1929, to the late Dan Walker and Emma (Brown) Ballenger. He passed away peacefully Aug. 18, 2022.

Bob grew up in Delaware County, graduating from Berlin High School in 1947, before joining the United States Air Force. He served in Japan during the Korean War.

Bob graduated from Southeast Missouri State College. While there he met and married Ruth Heifner. Bob then attended and graduated from the University of Missouri with his master’s degree.

Bob was a basketball coach, guidance counselor, Phys. Ed. teacher and assistant principal in Missouri high schools.

In 2004, they moved to Stockton, Missouri, where they were very active in church and volunteer work.

Bob loved fishing, basketball, watching sports and working with the Lions Club.

He was preceded in death by sister Mary Hensley and brother Bud Ballenger.

Bob is survived by his wife of 67 years Ruth, sister Bertha Boring, sons Jim (Janie) and Michael (Kerri), 9 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and friends. He loved them all as they did him.

Bob’s funeral service was Aug. 22, 2022, at Stockton United Methodist Church.