Franklin Ballinger

Franklin Dee Ballinger, 81, of Stevensville passed away on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at his home.

At this time the family will be remembering him privately. Online condolences accepted at www.PikeFH.com

Frank was born on May 17, 1939 in Kalamazoo, the son of the late Glenn and Claudine (Koole) Ballinger. On April 21, 1975 he married Sandra Lea Fansler and they shared 45 years together.  Frank served in the United States Navy. He was a member of the American Legion Stevensville Post 568 and the Benton Harbor Moose Lodge 1570. He attended MooseHeart Child City & School and then moved on to college on a sports scholarship. Frank was the only MHS (MooseHeart Schools) athlete to accomplish the first back to back mile IHSA state title, which he still holds today. He was a proud traveling union boilermaker. Frank loved all sports, especially golf, and being a part of the Gold Wing Motorcycle Club. Donations may be made to MooseHeart Child City & School: Moose Charities, Inc., 155 S. International Dr., Mooseheart, IL 60539-1100.

Frank is survived by his loving wife: Sandy Lea Ballinger; children: Jeffrey (Patricia) Grau, Denise (David Nitz) Grau, and Kristine (Jeffrey) Mahler; grandchildren: Kayla Mahler, Cody Mahler, Ashley Grau, Carley Grau, Dustin Nitz, and special grandchildren: Shelby and Drew Grau; great grandchild: Christopher Mahler. sister: Patricia (Bob) Hasper; brother: David Ballinger.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Boyd Chapel of Pike Funeral and Cremations Service, 9191 Red Arrow Hwy. Bridgman.