Ervin Dale Bullington went home to be with his Lord on September 16, 2013, after a year of battling a long illness. Dale was born February 9th, 1935 in Marshall, Missouri, to parents John Ervin Bullington and Hester Olene Shull Bullington. After moving from Marshall and living in several small towns in the area, the family moved to Bolivar, Missouri, where Dale attended and graduated from Bolivar High School.
For several years, Dale and his father owned and operated the Bolivar Locker Plant, creating the local favorite “Bullington’s Whole Hog Sausage”. During this time he was also active in the local volunteer fire department, where he eventually became fire chief. Dale then traveled to Phoenix, Arizona where he attended the local community college. On return to Springfield, his work led him to Kraft Foods where he eventually retired. He is also a 50-year member of the Bolivar Masonic Lodge.
Dale asked the Lord into his heart at the age of 22, and has served Him faithfully ever since. For the past 21 years he has been an active member of the First Baptist Church of Springfield. He enjoyed working with church members who needed maintenance at home from the SMART team. When time permitted, he was an avid craftsman, creating beautiful woodwork or refinishing wood pieces for friends and family. He was a long-dedicated St. Louis Cardinals fan and Springfield Cardinals season ticket holder, watching or attending games whenever possible. He never missed an opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren, or attend their various activities. He would never miss a chance to serve others, or to help someone in need.
Dale was preceded in death by his parents, his mother-in-law M. Dorlas Wills, one grandson, Brett Hendrickson, and brother-in-law J.D. Cavener.
He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Barbara Wills Bullington; and by his son Stan Bullington and wife Joan, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri; Step-sons David Marrs, J. Scott Marrs and wife Brigitte; Step-daughter Julie Anne Hendrickson and husband Bob; One brother-in-law, D. Gerald Wills and wife JoAnn, all of Springfield, Missouri. He is survived by one sister, Phyllis Sue Cavener, of Republic.
Grandchildren: Todd Bullington, Julie and Steve Otto, Jim and Maria Childress; Hannah Marrs; Katharine Marrs, William Marrs; Beth Anne Hendrickson, Bobby and Jennifer Hendrickson.
Great-grandchildren: Jacob, John and Bennett Otto; Sonnie Childress; Brett and Macy Hendrickson.
Nieces and Nephews: Kim Wills; Melinda and Daniel Lohkamp, Gary and Jennifer Cavener.
Special thanks to great nieces and nephews, many close cousins, and the many close friends who have been so supportive and helpful during this time in Dale’s life.
Visitation will be Thursday, September 19, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Greenlawn East, 3540 E Seminole. Memorial Service will be Friday, September 20, at 11:00 a.m. First Baptist Church, 525 South Avenue. Memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church Foundation or the Patient Oncology Fund, Mercy Health Foundation, 1235 S Cherokee.