Obituary of Linda Kay Ballas

Linda Kay Ballas, 78, of Denver, Colorado, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026. She was born on July 28, 1947, in Enid, Oklahoma. Linda is survived by her best friend and husband of 46 years, Steve; a beloved cat, Beeker; and her nephew, Scott Besaw of Chicago.

Linda graduated from Widefield High School in Security, CO. She lived a life defined by resilience, creativity, and generosity. At 18, Linda wanted to try her hand at modeling and wanted to move to California. Unfortunately, her father, Russell Scott (Blinky the Clown), would not let her move there without getting married. Well, that happened, and it only lasted 2 years, when she moved back to Colorado and began her modeling career with J F Images. Her warmth, work ethic, and adventurous spirit touched everyone who met her, including Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein, who were in Denver for a clothing show and encouraged her to move to New York City to continue her career.

In 1979, Linda met and married the love of her life, Steve Ballas, beginning a partnership that would span more than four decades. Together they built not only a marriage, but several successful family businesses rooted in hospitality and service. From launching Steve & Linda's Specialties catering business in Connecticut to owning and operating the Corporate Deli and Grill in both Connecticut and downtown Denver. Linda's inspiration, enthusiasm, and compassion for others created businesses known for quality and exceptional customer service. Later, she played an integral role in the creation and success of Steve's Snappin' Dogs, helping establish a beloved Denver institution that brought people together over great food and welcoming hospitality.

Life presented Linda with significant challenges, including a breast cancer diagnosis in 1994. She faced treatment with extraordinary courage, determination, and grace, ultimately becoming a cancer survivor. Her resilience inspired those around her and reflected the quiet strength that defined her character. After her recovery, she returned to Colorado to help care for her parents, demonstrating the selfless devotion to family that remained a constant throughout her life.

Linda found joy in caring for others, whether preparing meals, building businesses alongside her husband, supporting family, or creating lasting friendships. She believed in embracing new opportunities, never looking back with regret, and living each day with optimism and purpose.

Linda will be remembered for her beauty, infectious smile, compassionate heart, entrepreneurial spirit, and steadfast love for those closest to her. Her legacy lives through the countless lives she touched with her kindness, perseverance, and generosity.

She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

"A life beautifully lived leaves a legacy of love that endures forever."

A Celebration of Linda’s life will be held Sunday, August 16, at Feldman Mortuary from 11 - 1 pm.

Following the service, there will be a reception at Bull & Bush Brewery at 4700 Cherry Creek S Dr. in Denver, Colorado 80246.

For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed to the Feldman Mortuary YouTube Channel.

Friendly reminder: the service will begin online at 11 am Mountain Standard Time. So please tune in from the East Coast at 1 pm Eastern Standard Time. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions in Linda’s name to your favorite animal rescue.