Carl William Rullman Jr.

Carl was born on February 14, 1934, in the Catfish Community of Catawba County to Carl and Elizabeth Rullman and was brought up as a man of faith. He never wavered from this faith, instilled it in his children and grandchildren, and was certain of both his and their salvation.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Elizabeth Rullman; his son, Carl William Rullman III; his sister, Jettie Greenday; and brothers, Cap and Andy Rullman.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 72 years, Frances “Bugs” Rullman of Hickory; daughters, Tia Justice (Chuck) and Tanya “Dinky” Eddins (Jeff), both of Hickory; grandchildren, Ian Justice (Derica), Seana Benedict (Matt), Zach Eddins (Lauren), and Hannah Eddins; seven great-grandsons; brothers, Henry “Hank” Rullman (Joan) and Glenn Rullman; sisters, Carolyn Good (David), Denetia Johnson (Jim), and Amy Hofman; and sisters-in-law, Arlys Rullman and Alice Rullman.

Carl retired from a career in the furniture industry and was an avid gardener and outdoorsman, spending many happy days fishing and hunting along the East Coast and in the North Carolina mountains. He loved his family dearly, and “Uncle Carl” was the source of much laughter and entertainment for all who knew him. A devoted supporter of St. Stephen’s High School athletics, he was a season ticket holder for over forty years, ringing his cowbell after every score.

An active lifetime member of St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, Carl served faithfully in many roles, including the Walther League, choir, Men’s Club, and Lutheran Laymen’s League.

Though Carl’s memory faded in his later years, his love for Christ and for Bugs never diminished. They remained inseparable—steadfast in their faith and always ready for an adventure at a moment’s notice.

Services will be held at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church–LCMS in Hickory, NC, on Sunday, September 13, 2025. The family will receive friends from 1:45 to 2:45 p.m., followed by a service at 3:00 p.m. A private burial will follow.

The family wishes to thank Carolina Caring for their compassionate care and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Carl’s memory to St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod or Carolina Caring of Catawba County.

Hickory Funeral Home in Hickory is honored to serve the family of Mr. Rullman.