Barbara Ballinger

Barbara Ballinger, age 97, a resident of Oak Park, Illinois for over 60 years passed away November 14, 2022. Beloved aunt of Janet Laxalt, and her nephew’s widow, Beverly (Leon) Weitzenhoffer Jackson; Great-aunt of David (Stephanie Plancich) Weitzenhoffer and Wesley (Desirée) Weitzenhoffer, Michelle (Chris) Strahl, and great-great-aunt of Carson & Remy. Preceded in death by her sister, Geneva Weitzenhoffer, and her nephew, Mark Weitzenhoffer.
 
Barbara was born July 21, 1925 in Miami, Oklahoma to the late Harry C. And the late Doris L. (née Whaley) Ballinger. Throughout her life, Barbara was dedicated to poetry and literature, and she made a career working for public libraries. She made her home at Oak Park Public Library, serving as its director for 32 years. Barbara was also apart of several non-profit organizations, including the Ernest Hemingway Foundation, First United Church of Oak Park, and the Doris Humphrey Society. She participated in the social justice committee as well as the the buildings and grounds committee and was devoted to helping others.
 
Barbara was a great supporter of music, and she showed that support to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Lyric Opera, and the Ravinia Festival. She will be missed by many family, friends, and all those she helped throughout her life. In her honor, a memorial concert will be held on her birthday, July 21, 2023, at First United Church of Oak Park. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation be made to the Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake St, Oak Park, IL 60301, https://www.oppl.org/about/give/, in her memory. Funeral care provided by G.L. Hills Funeral Home and Cremation Center. For information, please call 847-699-9003 or visit www.glhillsfuneralhome.com.