BOLLINGER
Charles Kenneth “Ken” Bollinger, age 88, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Thursday, September 7, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on August 8, 1935, in Clarksburg, Mo., the son of Orla M. and Dolan C. (Baker) Bollinger.
Ken attended primary school in Latham, Mo. and graduated from Clarksburg High School. Ken joined the United States Army Reserves and during his training in Kentucky, his path crossed that of Joyce Sue Elliott. He and Joyce were married on January 1, 1962. She survives in the home.
Ken began working for the Democratic Party in the Missouri State Capital, and loved having the opportunity to commute and work with his best friend Gail Hughes. Ken also worked with Frontier Tower Insurance company, owned and operated Jefferson Cleaners, and later retired after more than 20 years of service as a Coil Winder with Westinghouse, currently ABB.
Ken was a an active and involved member of the Jefferson City community. He was well loved at the Sam B. Cook Healthplex for his faithful use of their facility as well as his volunteer efforts for over 25 years. Ken made his way to the Healthplex for his daily exercise until the week prior to his passing. Ken was passionate about dedicating time and resources wherever it was needed within the community and often assisted with the local food pantry. A man of great faith, Ken served as a deacon with Concord Baptist Church, Union Hill Baptist Church, and Cornerstone Baptist Church and excitedly offered his help with many church events over the years. Ken never met a stranger and had a compassionate heart for his fellow man, selflessly offering to care for his elderly family members, friends, and neighbors. He will also be remembered as “Santa” at daycares around town.
Ken was an avid sports fan, rarely missing a Cardinals, Royals, Chiefs or Mizzou game, which were played in stadiums lit up by lights his brother Leo had helped install, a fact he was very proud of. He raised his sons to enjoy sports as well and was a supportive face in the crowd at every event. Ken was especially fond of the Budweiser Clydesdales, having a deep love for horses from a young age. He was a lover of card games as well, playing solitaire on the computer and engaging in countless rousing hands of Canasta with his brother John “J.A” and his wife Mary. Ken attended numerous auctions each year in search of antique furniture and refinished many pieces himself. He took great pride in his lawn, an endeavor which earned him an award for his beautiful landscaping. A lesser-known ability of Ken’s was his piano prowess, he taught himself to play by ear, an impressive display of his musical talent.
Above all Ken was a committed family man. He was a faithful husband and a dedicated father. He was always willing to do whatever it took to provide for his family. His sons hold many memories with their father, among which are their trip to the 2011 Cardinals playoff game when David Freese hit a home run to win the game and innumerable wood chopping excursions to fuel the family fireplace. Ken will be remembered for his sense of humor and bantering ability, his faith in God, and his commitment to his family. He will be dearly missed by those who love him.
Survivors include: his two sons, Mark Bollinger of Jefferson City, Mo., and Todd Bollinger (Jackie (Neeley) Bollinger) of Taos, Mo.; two grandchildren, Justin Bollinger (Allie Schneiders) and Kevin Coker; two step-grandchildren, Brett Jones and Whitney Jones; two great-grandchildren, Theodore “Theo” Bollinger and Margaret “Margo” Bollinger; and eight step-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Orla and Dolan Bollinger; siblings, Leo Bollinger, Maxine Bollinger Martin, Louise Bollinger Irey, and John Bollinger; and his cherished friends, Gail Hughes, Edwin and Thena Costello, and his beloved horse Trigger.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Cornerstone Baptist Church.
A funeral service will be conducted at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, September 16, 2023 with the Reverend Brian Credille officiating. Interment will follow at Hawthorn Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Parkinson’s Foundation PO Box 95, Jefferson City, MO 65102.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Freeman Mortuary.
www.freemanmortuary.com