Artis Ann Ballinger

Artis Ann Ballinger, 90, was born Jan. 18, 1935, to Arthur and Geralda Herk in North Dakota. She grew up on the family farm in Barnes County, and her only sibling, sister Bonnie, was born a few years later. During the winter months, the family often lived in Bismarck, where Arthur served in the North Dakota Legislature.

Artis graduated from high school and went on to attend Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn. While at Concordia, she met the love of her life, Robert “Ty” Ballinger. They were married in 1954 and shared 65 years of marriage until Ty’s passing in 2024.

In 1961, Artis and Ty moved to Montana, where Ty earned his Master of Arts degree. The following year, they settled in Moses Lake, Wash., where they would live for the next 63 years and raise their family.

Artis was an active and devoted member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. She was especially involved in the women’s group, where she often organized luncheons and events. A talented pianist and organist, Artis regularly played for church services and gatherings.

Artis had a love for gardening and birdwatching, and she delighted in decorating her home for every holiday. She worked as a school librarian for the Moses Lake School District, where she shared her love of books and learning with countless children. After retiring from the school district, she worked at the Town Shoppe, where, as she often joked, she spent more money on clothes than she made.

Artis was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ty, and her parents, Arthur and Geralda Herk.  

She is survived by her sister Bonnie Carlson of Palm Desert, Calif. Artis is also survived by her children: Jeri Laam (Rick) of Orofino, Idaho; Jay Ballinger (Renee) of Moses Lake, Wash.; and Kami Thompson (John) of Portland, Ore. She also leaves behind cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

Artis lived a full life grounded in faith, family and service. She will be remembered for her grace, creativity and the warmth she brought to those around her.

Services for Artis will be held at Moses Lake Presbyterian Church at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025. A reception will follow the service at the Riviera Room at Enzo Italian Restaurant, 1345 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake.

Please express your thoughts and memories for the family at https://bit.ly/AABALLINGER. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.