Loretta Ballenger

Loretta Ernestine (Von Moegen) Ballenger, 94, passed away, April 9, 2021.  She was born December 18, 1926, at home on Duffy Road in Delaware County, Ohio.  She was the daughter of George Von Moegen and Hildagard Kunigunde (Frank) Von Moegen.  Loretta graduated from Bellpoint High School in 1944 and attended business school.  She worked in the insurance industry until she was 80 years old.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Ballenger in 2004, daughters Patricia and Donna, sisters Rose Workman and Louise Baker, brothers George Von Moegen and Richard Von Moegen, brothers-in-law Burnett Workman, Robert Page and Robert Baker, and son-in-law Stanley “Andy” Andruzis.

Loretta is survived by her sister Adele Page, FL; children Mary Galentine (Dennis Budinski), OH; Carol Andruzis, FL; Bob (Nancy) Ballenger, OH; grandchildren Kimberly (John) Palmer, TX; Michelle (Chad) Campbell, PA; Andrew (Jodi) Andruzis, OH; Jason (Chrissy) Andruzis, OH; Jacque Andruzis (Chad Hildreth), OH; Laura Ballenger (David Pratt), OH; Ryan Ballenger, OH; great-grandchildren Zachary and Lindsey Palmer, TX; Avery Andruzis; Lillian and Addilyn Hildreth; River Andruzis, OH, and dearly loved nieces and nephews.

“Granny” always had a jigsaw puzzle on the table and would challenge everyone to a game of Rummikub.  She loved hosting family gatherings and was an avid reader.

Loretta loved to travel. Her trips included Alaska, Europe, China, and many beach vacations.  She enjoyed visiting her father’s German homeland.

Loretta served as the president of the Bellpoint School Alumni Association for many years.

She enjoyed volunteering at My Very Own Blanket in Westerville, OH, making blankets for children in foster care.  Loretta was a bright presence in people’s lives and will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations to My Very Own Blanket, 407 W Main Street, Westerville, OH 43081, myveryownblanket.org .

A celebration of her life will be held on May 22, 2021 at 10:30 am at the Delaware St. Mary's Catholic Church, 82 E. Williams St., Delaware, Ohio 43015. A graveside service will follow immediately after the celebration of life at St. Mary's Cemetery, 426 S. Sandusky St., Delaware, Ohio 43015.