Mildred Ballin M.D.

1924 - 2015

Dr. Mildred Geiger Ballin, 91, a resident of Hinsdale for 52 years, passed away at her new home in Burr Ridge on December 27, 2015. Mildred was born in 1924 in Columbus, Ohio and graduated from high school at age 16 with a straight-A academic record. She graduated from Bowling Green State University as valedictorian at age 20. The Medical School at Ohio State University denied her admission because she was "too young." Mildred worked as a secretary for two years until she was admitted to OSU. She, once again, achieved straight A's and graduated magna cum laude. The new "Dr. Geiger" elected to do her internship and residency at the University of Chicago where she met the love of her life (and future husband) Dr. John C. Ballin. They married two years later. Mildred had a remarkable medical career in LaGrange. She was among the small group of physicians who persuaded the Village of LaGrange that it needed its own hospital. She convinced the village to raise the money, and the result was LaGrange Community Memorial General Hospital. She served the hospital in many capacities; Chief of Staff, member of the Board of Governors (the first woman and first physician to be elected) and was the recipient of many honors and citations. Mildred was an active member of Grace Episcopal Church, Hinsdale Golf Club and loved antique shopping and refinishing. Mildred is survived by her husband of 64 years, John Christian, her three daughters: Janet (Jay) Tuthill, Susan (Charles) Owens and Carol (James) Marshall, and her grandchildren: Jori and Jack Tuthill, David, Michael and Katherine Owens, William, Jonathan and Peter Marshall. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Thomas Marshall. A private family service and Eucharist will be held at Grace Episcopal Church. A memorial service celebrating Mildred's life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Grace Episcopal Church, 120 East First Street, Hinsdale, IL Arrangements entrusted to Powell Funeral Directors of Hinsdale. 630-703-9131 or www.powellfuneraldirectors.com