Craig Hullinger

Colonel Craig Harlan Hullinger

Craig Harlan Hullinger, a proud and distinguished United States Marine Corps veteran, passed away on June 27, 2025 at the age of 77 in Bloomington, Illinois. Colonel Hullinger dedicated his life to service, both to his country and to his family and community.

Born in Brookings, South Dakota on December 1, 1947 to Cliff and Louise Hullinger, Colonel Hullinger enjoyed sports, motorbikes, and his 1930 Ford Model A. In 1966, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, beginning a remarkable career marked by bravery, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the Corps' values. During his time in the Marine Corps, Colonel Hullinger served over four years of active duty, including 18 months in Vietnam, and an additional 28 years in the Reserves. He embodied the spirit of the Corps, always leading by example and inspiring those around him to strive for excellence.

Beyond his military career, Colonel Hullinger was a devoted husband and father, and a cherished member of his community. He dedicated his life to civic improvement and became an avid city planner. He was known for his interest in his family’s ancestry, his world travels – having circumnavigated the world multiple times – and involvement with Sister Cities and the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). He brought a unique blend of strength, kindness, and wisdom to all aspects of his life. Friends and family will fondly remember his unwavering loyalty, sage advice, and plethora of blogs, including https://allourscoop.blogspot.com/.

Colonel Hullinger is survived by his children, Leigh Ann Masen and Brett Schaller Hullinger; his sister, Anne Hullinger; his brother and sister-in-law Scott and Barbara Hullinger; and their children, Erik and wife Maddie, Krystina, Alex, and Shane Hullinger. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Beth Ruyle-Hullinger, his parents, son, Clint, and brother, Neal.

Services will be private. Colonel Hullinger’s remains will be interred at Sarasota National Cemetery in Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Colonel Hullinger's memory to the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation https://secure.marineheritage.org/.

Colonel Hullinger will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of honor, courage, and dedication that will continue to inspire for generations to come. Semper Fi.