Kenneth Allan Ballinger, 79, of Bay City, Texas, passed away September 22, 2024. He was born March 7, 1945, in Houston to the late W. F. “Fred” and Leila Williams Ballinger. He graduated from Van Vleck High School in 1963. He began his career with Texaco in 1964 and retired in 2002 after 38 years of continuous service. During his time with Texaco, he worked side by side with many men and formed cherished lifelong friendships. After retiring from Texaco, he spent the next 13 years as an oilfield consultant for numerous companies. His knowledge and skills in the industry were highly respected and sought after. He retired for good in 2015 at the age of 70.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Vicki Page Ballinger of Bay City; sons Ken Ballinger of Bay City; Clint Ballinger and wife Mary Ellen of Bay City; daughter Brandi Hill and husband Charles of Spring; honorary son Jack Page and wife Brenda of Smithville; grandchildren Colt Ballinger and wife Skylar of West Columbia; Whitni Krenek and husband Duane of West Columbia; great grandchildren Carl, Addison and Lorelai Krenek of West Columbia; sister Jewel Kelsey and husband Edmon of Lufkin; nephew Glenn Kelsey and wife Regina of Dayton; niece Melanie Janssen and husband Tracey of Hallettsville; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and sisters/brothers in law.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; sister and brother-in-law Janelle and Bill Surratt; sister Marilyn Freeman, infant brother Aubrey Ballinger and nephew James Kelsey.

Visitation will begin at 10 AM on Thursday, September 26, at Hawley Cemetery in Blessings, Texas. Graveside service will begin at 11 AM with Bro. Mike Zimmerman and Bro. Rick DuBroc officiating. Burial will follow at Hawley Cemetery. He requested that we encourage you to dress casually and comfortably if you plan to attend.

The pallbearers will be nephews David W. Anders, Chad Emerson, Brent Emerson, J.T. Page, Garry McCreight, Harry Engelmohr, and Duane Muncrief. Honorary pallbearers will be Ed Kacer, Wayne Page, Gayle Watkins, Bob King, Gerald Pitts, Ed Hutchins, Mike Nordin, B. W. Bevers and the many friends he made during his 38 years at Texaco.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to either Jet Set-First Baptist Church (Bay City).

Arrangements with Slavik Funeral Home, Edna, TX 361-782-2152. Hawley Cemetery, 100 Hawley Cemetery Rd. Bay City, TX 77414.