Gerald L. Bollinger, 84, former long-time Buda resident passed away January 1, 2015, in Salinas, CA at home surrounded by family. Born May 6, 1930, in Chester, IL, Gerald was raised on the family farm. After military service, he lived in Salinas, CA raising his family until retirement from the U.S. Government Civil Service. Gerald retired to Buda, Texas, in 1986 where he lived until returning to Salinas in 2012.
Gerald served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War earning two Bronze Stars and several other accreditations. He volunteered with the Civil Air Patrol for over 30 years achieving the rank of Lt. Colonel, and conducting and participating in countless search-and-rescue missions. Gerald was responsible for nine finds and five saves.
Gerald was a story-teller extraordinaire recounting his many adventures. He loved airplanes, nature, fishing, camping, hunting, and had a soft spot for his many pets over the years. He proudly served his country and always appreciated participating in local Veterans Day programs with his nephews at Hays CISD campuses.
Gerald was preceded in death by parents, Floyd and Marie Bollinger, and brother, Robert Dunn. He is survived by his life partner, Donna Jaranilla of Buda, Texas; daughters June Stanfield of Lancaster, CA and Joyce Ponton of Salinas, CA; son Jay Bollinger of Salinas, CA; brothers Lyle (Mary) Bollinger of Kyle, Texas and Jean (Evelyn) Bollinger of Austin, Texas; nine grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, four nephews and two nieces and several great-nephews and nieces.
Private graveside committal will be held at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in California.
A memorial will be held on Sunday, March 8 from 2-4 p.m. at the Kyle Area Senior Citizens Center at 101 S. Burleson St. in Kyle, Texas 78640. The family welcomes all who knew Gerald to come and celebrate his life.