Charles John (Ret.) (Chuck) Lt.Col. Hullinger, Jr.

Lt. Col (ret) Charles (Chuck) John Hullinger Jr, age 88, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2016 in San Antonio, Texas. He was born on February 12, 1928 in Chicago, Illinois. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Charles J. Hullinger and Helen Tarpey Hullinger.

Chuck is survived by his spouse of 32 years, Mary M. Hullinger, and their blended family: Children: Kay (Jim) Speier, Lynn (Johnny) Speier, Jean (Bob) Henslee, Susan Hullinger (Mike Campbell), Robert Hullinger (Carolyn O'Brien), Brian Sullivan, Karen (Kevin) Lenahan, Sean (Teri) Sullivan, and Susan (Mike) Riggens

Grandchildren: Chris (Jamie) Speier, Liz Speier, Gus and Hank Henslee, Lily Campbell, Mark, and Kevin Speier, Megan, Jake, Brady and Ben Sullivan, Tanner and Tori White, Katherine, Hannah, and Samuel Riggens and Jocelyn Lenahan. Great-grandchildren: Taylor, Ava, Truett, and Vivienne Speier

Chuck was raised in Chicago until he was 12 years old when his family moved to Atlanta, Georgia. He attended Marist High School and graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1950 with a degree in Industrial Mgt. He was a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity and was the first freshman university cheerleader. Later he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering from OSU and an Accounting degree from St. Mary's University.

Chuck served in the US Air Force for 22 years as a communications officer ( Air Training Command). As a Major, he was commander of the 1878th Squadron at Pleiku Airbase, Vietnam , which was awarded the USAF outstanding unit award for meritorious service, 1970. In addition, he was awarded the Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam.

He retired from the USAF at Randolph AFB in 1976. After his military career, he worked as a Sales Executive for AT&T.

Fun-loving and generous, as well as fiercely protective of those dear to him, Chuck adored his family. Restoring antique cars and furniture were among his many interests. He could fix anything. A voracious reader, Chuck would seldom be seen in his recliner without a book in his hands and usually a cookie or two. As a connoisseur of sweets, Chuck enjoyed coconut cream pie, tapioca, apple pie, vanilla ice cream and anything Mary cooked. When entertaining, Chuck would give the code word "FHB" (Family Hold Back) to ensure ample food for all guests in attendance. This code was at times given at large blended family dinners, inducing chuckles all around, given everyone present was family. Other well known Chuckisms include "Don't sweat the small stuff", using "quite obviously" in conversation, "That beats a poke in the eye with a sharp stick," and "I bought a car once for what you paid for that". Figuratively able to find due north with his eyes closed, Chuck would become puzzled by some family members who could not follow his directions, especially given the fact that he could "see it in his mind." Chuck was quite the dancer and was an avid Spurs fan. He had a soft spot for the family dog, Kelly, whose personality was as big as his (all 5 pounds of her).

To Vitas Hospice, Marina and Vio Jarda, and their devoted and compassionate staff, especially Vanissa and May, thank you for the precious work you do. The extreme care and tenderness shown to Chuck and our family during his final months, and particularly his final days, were a blessing and a gift for which we are forever grateful. A special thanks as well to our extended family and friends for their prayers, love and support during this difficult time.

Although Chuck was an only child, God blessed him with 9 children, 17 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

All are invited to join us for visitation at Porter Loring North on Sunday, August 14, 2016 at 6 PM. Rosary will follow at 7 PM.

Graveside service to be held Monday, August 15, at 11:15am at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, officiated by Chaplain Dan Ames.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Chuck's name to St. Jude Children's Hospital or the charity of your choice.

MAY THE ROAD rise up to meet you.

MAY THE WIND be always at your back.

MAY THE SUN shine warm upon your face.

MAY THE RAINS fall soft upon your fields,

and until we meet again.

MAY GOD HOLD YOU in the palm of His hand.