Charles M. Gullord, 66

Bricelyn – Charles “Chuck” Mark Gullord, 66, of Visalia, CA, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend, Chuck touched the lives of everyone who knew him with his warmth, generosity, and joyful spirit.

Chuck’s love for his family was boundless. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Debbie, who was the love of his life and his companion in their years of parenting and adventures. Together, they enjoyed weekends filled with travel, new restaurants, and scenic motorcycle rides along the coast. He took immense pride in his two daughters, KayLeigh (Derek Verrisimo) and Candice (Chris Whitaker), and celebrated each of their accomplishments with endless support and encouragement. His love and pride extended to his four grandchildren, Jackson, Emerson, Milo, and Brighton. He made countless drives to spend Thanksgivings and special holidays with his family in Texas, and kept up an annual tradition of hunting with family in Minnesota. Every moment he spent with family was deeply cherished.

Born on Jan. 24, 1958, in Blue Earth, MN, Chuck was raised with a strong work ethic and a love for the land. He began his career working alongside his father on the family farm, later earning a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business and Management from Arizona State University. With the last 25 years of his career spent with Bayer CropScience, Chuck retired this past July, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and lifelong friendships.

Chuck had an undeniable exuberance for life. Known for his vibrant personality and sense of humor, he could light up any room, making connections with people from all walks of life. Chuck also had a huge passion for music. He frequently attended concerts with friends and often shared a song or hummed a familiar tune that brought back cherished memories.

Chuck was a committed member of Christ Lutheran Church for 33 years, actively involved in the Men’s Group, chaperoning youth mission trips during Candice’s high school years, and volunteering in many capacities. His faith community and the friendships he built there held a significant place in his heart.

He is also survived by his mother, Gayle Gullord; sisters, Mary Olson (Dan), Deanne King (Ricky), and Kathryn Gullord; father-in-law, Don Amundson (Mavis); sister-in-law, Wendy (Jim); and his nieces and nephews, Mitch Anderson (Michelle), Nikki Brandt (Matt), Brent Anderson, Brenda Nelson (Chuck), Mike Olson (Emily), Brett Olson, Charlsey Forbess (Kim), Callie Grice, AJ King (Haley), Aaron King, and Connor King. He is preceded in death by his father, DeBlom Gullord; mother-in-law, Virginia Amundson; and sister, Cheryl Grice.

Family and friends gathered for a celebration of Chuck’s life at Christ Lutheran Church, 3830 W. Tulare Avenue, Visalia, CA, on Saturday, Nov. 23, at 11 a.m., followed by a repast.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association in Chuck’s memory.