Tribute

Chuck became my good friend when I started to date Rich. He will be sorely missed, like a brother. He enjoyed deliberately annoying me during Trivial Pursuit games, but he was also kind and ready to assist us in our moves, and with anything else when we needed help. He was empathetic, a rare quality. I remember one time when his eyes filled with tears over a particular sadness that we were facing. He prayed for us during tough times, and he rejoiced with us during good times. His friendship was an exceptional one, for over 58 years!!

I know Chuck in his later years and will always remember his warm smile and greeting. Sending my deepest sympathy to Ruth and his two sons. Marjorie Heady

To have a friend, a best friend, for over 67 years is unusual. That was who Chuck Sullivan was in my life…..starting with Bret Harte Junior High School in 1952, then Washington High, Harbor Junior College, and then into our adult years. Each of us was best man in the other’s wedding, even though we had to fly across the country, as we were living in different places at the time. We were part of the same church group growing up, Vermont Avenue Presbyterian, and played church ball together, served as co-editors of the junior high news letter, and each served, at different times, as youth council president. As married couples, we went on vacations together. Athletic competition continued into our late 70’s, as we had weekly golf contests…..putting and driving for accuracy.
We were there for each other through medical challenges, and personal life challenges. I can’t ever recall a major argument between us. The following from Isaiah 40:31 is the Bible verse that first came to mind upon hearing of Chuck’s passing: “But those who hope in the Lord, will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Dear Ruth and Family,
Having met you both over 50 years ago and remained friends ever since has been a real blessing in my life. Always remember that some one in Tucson thinks of you often and remembers Chuck’s loving and caring spirit.
Love, Don Roarty

Dear Ruth,
Two years ago we were in California and Don said “I want you to meet my dear friends Chuck and Ruth”. Don called and we were invited for dinner. I was so very warmly welcomed with a huge hug from both of you and felt I had known you forever. Ginny Roarty

Such a gentle, soulful, elegant, smooth human being. His love for his family and friends was palpable and a blessing to experience.

My most sincere love to Ruth, Darren, Simon, Lisa and David.

This is such a hard thing to do because on March 28 I lost one of my dearest friends. My husband and I became friends with Chuck and Ruth many years ago when we went to a wonderful party at their home. It was a crazy dinner with many plates and utensils used during the dinner, by EACH guest. Ruth said she could use help cleaning up the next day. Dick and I volunteered because we wanted to get to know them better and after all, they had a beautiful new home so how hard would it be to load the dishwasher, right? Well, to my amazement, there was no dishwasher, she took it out and put in a cupboard. Needless to say,I got to know them very well. Dick and I were part of the original Bible Study they formed in 1972. We traveled extensively together and had many wonderful years together. My husband was in Heaven to welcome Chuck. I will miss Chuck so much and my prayers are with Ruth, David and Lisa, Darren and Simon.

I met Chuck and Ruth’s son Darren at Cal Poly SLO in 1989. We became great friends and when I visited Darren at Ruth and Chuck’s Claremont home they were so welcoming. I even got to drive the Mustang! I don’t even think Chuck allowed Darren to drive it at the time so I was truly honored. Chuck seemed like such a calm, thoughtful person which must have made him the perfect match for the educational field. My condolences to the family.

Mr. Sullivan was my 7th grade guidance counselor at El Roble a million years ago. He was so kind and patient and understanding. I felt supported as I began the complicated journey known as junior high. Many years later, I ran into him in the elevator at the Pomona courthouse. Jury duty. I knew, having been raised by teachers, that he wouldn’t actually remember me, so I introduced myself. God bless him he managed to make me feel as if he did, indeed, remember me. What a wonderful quality. I imagine he’s missed terribly. He made a difference in my life.

I had the pleasure of knowing Chuck through my dear friend Ruth. He was always very loving and supportive of her and helpful in any way he could. Loved seeing him in the 4th of July parade and going to the concerts in the park with them. You both are always in my heart ❤️

With a smile and carefully thought out plan, Chuck arrived with Ruth well before 8 at Claremont Graduate University to be prepared for the 9 am start time for Ruth and I to teach master’s graduate students. Then just as pleasantly he would take his leave for the rest of the 6 hr teaching day! Wherever he was at home or in the classroom, we felt our best with his understanding and empathy. I too give thanks for the team spirit he offered graciously!