Larry Ballinger, Sr.

Larry Lee Ballinger Sr., 80, of Waverly, Nebraska, formerly of Pender, Nebraska, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at The Mulberry Care Center in Waverly. A Celebration of Life Open House will be held on Monday, June 29, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Pender Community Center in Pender, Nebraska. Private family graveside services will be held at Rosehill Cemetery in Pender. Services are under the direction of Munderloh–Smith Funeral Home in Pender.

Larry was born on August 5, 1945, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Harold “Bud” Faye Ballinger and Sylvia Marie (Moore) Ballinger. He attended Plattsmouth High School and proudly served in the National Guard unit based in Wayne, Nebraska.

On August 26, 1967, Larry was united in marriage to Mary Winnifred McQuistan at the Methodist Church in Pender. Together, they shared 57 beautiful years filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Larry was a man who valued hard work, family, faith, and community. He was known for his steady presence, unwavering work ethic, honesty, and willingness to lend a helping hand. He took great pride in providing for his family and found his greatest joy in spending time with loved ones — whether through everyday moments, family gatherings, or simple traditions that will be fondly remembered for generations.

An avid outdoorsman, Larry especially enjoyed hunting and fishing, pursuits that reflected his appreciation for nature and time spent with family and friends. He also loved traveling to sporting events and took tremendous joy in attending and supporting the activities of those he loved, proudly cheering on his family from the sidelines and stands.

Above all, Larry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His love for his family was evident in both his words and actions. His legacy of integrity, perseverance, kindness, and dedication will continue through the generations who carry those lessons forward.

Larry is survived by his children: Larry Jr. (Kelly) Ballinger of Pender, Nebraska; Scott (Kathy) Ballinger of Waverly, Nebraska; and Beth (Tom) Siegmann of Windermere, Florida. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Paige (Ben) Hegge, Hallie (Ryan) Macholan, Daniel (Jaden) Siegmann, Jarrett Ballinger, Parker Ballinger, Zachary Siegmann, and Camden Ballinger; and great-grandchildren: Tatum Hegge, Harden Hegge, and Brooks Macholan. He is further survived by his brother, Roger (Patti) Ballinger of Edwards, MO; sisters-in-law Maureen Wenke of Pender, NE, and Arel Gies of Muskogee, OK; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold “Bud” and Sylvia Ballinger; his beloved wife, Mary Ballinger; daughter, Michele Ballinger; brother, Ronald “Ron” Ballinger; sisters, Cheryl Peregoy and Pam Petereit.