Perry Richard Sullinger

Perry Richard (Dick) Sullinger passed peacefully on January 14, 2017. Dick was born on the family farm outside of Pierce City, Missouri on December 27, 1923, to Jessie and Perry Sullinger. There, he began to learn lessons that served him throughout life. Chopping wood and hauling water from the well into the house taught him the value of hard work. Love of family was learned as he and his brother Bob shared chores, mischief, and learned their school lessons with the help of their Mother. His faith in God was born as he attended church and revivals at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church. He graduated from Pierce City High School and took a job as a telegraph operator with the Frisco Railroad. As WWII broke out, Dick signed up and served (1943-45) in the Navy on the USS San Diego (18 battle stars without casualty). After 18 months at sea, they were the first ship into Tokyo Bay for the treaty signing. After his military service, he began his education, but more importantly, Dick embarked upon a lifelong journey, as he met and courted Mary Elizabeth Rutledge. They married on Nov 26, 1950 in Dexter, New Mexico. Over the course of 66 years, she was the bright smile to his reserved countenance, and together they built a home and a family. Unquestionably soulmates, Mary Liz was by his side as he passed. Dick attended South Missouri State University to earn a Bachelor of Agriculture Science degree. He also received a Masters of Education from NMSU, and an Education Specialist in Education Leadership. A life time educator (1955-1986), he started his career as Ag teacher in Elida, NM, then continued as high school principal in Mountainair, NM, and finally served as counselor and then Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction in Clovis Pubic Schools. He received the New Mexico Distinguished Service Award for Retired Teachers Association, where he served as president for 30 years. He was a member of the Grand Lodge of Free Masonry in Clovis, NM for 66 years. A member of Kingswood United Methodist Church in Clovis NM for over 50 years, he served on various committees as well as taught Sunday school. After moving to Greeley, he attended St. Paul’s Congregational Church. After retirement, Dick and Mary Liz enjoyed traveling and spending time with grandkids. Dick’s hobbies were often shared with Mary Liz. In their wood shop she would sketch a plan; he would cut the wood. He would write the genealogy stories (1750-1945); she would edit and publish for future generations. Work and staying relevant was important to Dick right until the end. He continued to record thoughts and stories of his past, and present, to share with his family. Dick was a man of integrity, humility, love and patience. He modeled his calm demeanor as he built his life around family and faith, and never compromised his principles. He passed from this world trying to make it a better place for those who followed him. Dick is survived by his wife, Mary Liz Sullinger of Greeley, CO; three daughters - Becky Dougherty (Dennis) of Greeley CO, Karen Rebol (Dave) of Ft. Morgan, Colorado, D’Lane Joens (Brad) of Kersey Colorado; 8 grandchildren – Laurel Harlow (Zac), Annika Kautz (Craig), Kelsey Pierce (James) Amanda Rebol, Madeline Parker (Jameson), Andrew Rebol, Dillon Joens, and Parker Joens, and four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Tate Sullinger, Mother, Jessie Jewel Sullinger and Father Perry Otis Sullinger. A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on January 28, 2017 at 10:30am at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 1525 43rd Avenue in Greeley, CO. Burial will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Peirce City, MO. Memorial gifts may be made to Kingswood United Methodist Church, Clovis NM; St. Paul’s Congregational Church, Greeley, CO; and the Lighthouse Mission, Clovis NM. They can be sent in care of Moser Funeral Service, 3501 S. 11th Avenue, Evans, Colorado 80620. An online obituary and guestbook are available at www.moserfuneralservice.com

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Perry Richard Sullinger

December 27, 1923 - January 14, 2017