Charles Francis Sullivan Jr.'s Obituary
Charles Francis Sullivan, Jr., 83, passed away peacefully on Mother’s Day, May 14, 2023, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on July 20, 1939 in Boston, Massachusetts, to Charles and Anna (Greene) Sullivan. After graduating from Stoneham High School, at the age of 17, he entered the US Air Force in 1957.
During his first tour in Okinawa, he met and married the love of his life and best friend, Hideko Miyagi. They were together for over 63 years. He was a devoted family man and along with Hideko, raised their children with a strong love of family and solid work ethic.
During his 27 years of military service, Charles, known as Sully, traveled the world on several assignments to Okinawa, and Japan, and Vietnam, and stateside assignments in Montana, Florida, Virginia and Washington.
He had an exemplary Air Force career. His strong leadership skills enabled him to quickly advance through the ranks. He was assigned to many Air Force Fighter Wings starting with T-33 through F-15C jet aircraft. Early in his career, as a Crew Chief, he flew in the backseat of various fighter jets during deployments and air competitions. He received numerous medals and awards including a Bronze Star for actions during combat while serving at Da Nang AB, Vietnam. He achieved the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, retiring in 1984.
He continued his passion in aviation working for McDonnell Douglas and Boeing. He retired from Boeing in 2002. He enjoyed many years of retirement.
Most importantly, Charles was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. He deeply loved his wife, children, and grandchildren.
He is predeceased by many friends, and family members, his parents Charles Francis Sullivan and Anna Mary (Greene) Sullivan, his sister, Jeanne Sullivan, his brother Timothy Sullivan, and grandson Jonathon Sullivan.
Surviving Charles Sullivan is his wife, Hideko (Miyagi) Sullivan, his Children: William (wife Patricia) Sullivan of Federal Way, WA, Michelle Sullivan of Issaquah, WA, and John (wife Elizabeth) Sullivan of Happy Valley, OR. He leaves 4 grandchildren, Will, Joshua, Kyla, and Kaden. Also surviving are sisters, Eleanor (Sullivan) Martin, Michelle (Sullivan) Rouse, and brother, William Sullivan.
The family would like to thank St. Clare Hospital of Tacoma, Life Care Center and MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital of Puyallup for their support and care.
Our Dad will be forever loved and greatly missed.
Charles will be laid to rest with full military honors on Monday, Jun 19, 2023 at Mountain View Cemetery, Tacoma, WA.
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