Tae Im Ballenger

Tae was born on January 20, 1936, in Chinyang-gun, South Korea. In 1970, she married Dale Ballenger, and shortly after, they moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she proudly became a U.S. citizen in June of 1972. In 1973, Tae and Dale were stationed in Germany, where they welcomed their only child, Tina Marston. They later returned to Colorado Springs, which became the place she called home for most of her life.

Tae was a dedicated and hardworking woman. Over the years, she worked at the Broadmoor Hotel, KP on Fort Carson, and on the cleaning crew at a casino in Cripple Creek. Her strong work ethic and quiet strength were evident in all she did.

Though Tae and Dale divorced in 2005, she continued to live independently until 2014, when she moved into senior living. As her health declined, she transitioned to assisted living in Aurora in 2022, and later entered hospice care on July 15, 2025.

Tae is survived by her beloved daughter, Tina Marston, and son-in-law, Clay Marston; her grandchildren Steven Stone, Myles Stone and his wife Jessie, Alexis Marston; and her cherished great-grandchildren Mya and Jack Stone. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Nam Sok Chon; and nieces Mee Kyung Edward, Seon Mee Nguyen, and Seon Ah Kendel.

Tae will be remembered for her quiet resilience, deep love for her family, and the legacy of strength she leaves behind.

A private service will be held in her honor. The family wishes to thank the caregivers and staff at her assisted living and hospice facilities for their compassionate care in her final years.