Ltc Ret.

LTC Hilbert Helmut "Bert" Chole, 80, went to be with his Lord, Saturday, November 26, 2016. Born in Garske, North Dakota to Helmut August and Ida (Bender) Chole on June 16, 1936. Bert heard his Country's call at a early age and dedicated most of his life to the United States Army. He enlisted in the Washington State National Guard in 1954 at the age of 18. Approximately a year later he transferred to active duty as an infantryman and served in the enlisted ranks. In 1964 he graduated from the Infantry Officer Candidate School and was commissioned as an Armor Officer.
His last assignment in the Army was as the Squadron Commander for the 1st Squadron (Air), 17th Cavalry (Airborne) of the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1978 after 24 years of military service. Bert was a member of 1st CAV Association, VHPA, Bullwhip Squadron, MOAA and the American Legion. He was inducted into the Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame, and his combat decorations include the Silver Star (2 awards), Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross (4 awards), Bronze Star (4 awards), Air Medals (34), Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (4awards), and other service awards. He was also awarded the Senior Aviator and Parachutist badges, the Airmobile Badge and the Army General Staff Badge.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 33 years Barbara Eileen Chole, who were always known together as "Bert and Eileen". Bert is also survived by the children of his heart: Lance Newkirk (Susan), Valerie Olsen (Rodney), Lucy Slaughter (Lloyd), Julie Presley (Doug), April Whitmire (Keith), Lori Manuel (Russ), Sue Cellini (Kevin), Charley Salsbury (Grace) and Krista Alba (Henry), 23 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and Sister Miriam Ames (Bud). Bert is predeceased by his son Hilbert H. Chole, II, brother Raymond Chole and sister Lillian Sedlor.
A Gathering of Friends for LTC Hilbert Helmut "Bert" Chole, USA Ret. is scheduled for Friday, December 2nd, 2016 form 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Carey Hand Colonial Funeral Home, 2811 Curry Ford Road, Orlando, Florida 32806. A Celebration of Life service will follow immediately the gathering beginning at 6:00 PM, with a continuation of stories and memories with the family with a reception in the funeral homes event room. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wounded Warriors Foundation, PO Box 231464, Montgomery, AL.

Visitation

Carey Hand Colonial Chapel
2811 Curry Ford Road
Orlando, FL  32806
Friday, December 2, 2016
4:00 to 6:00 PM

Service

Celebration of Life

Carey Hand Colonial Chapel
2811 Curry Ford Road
Orlando, FL  32806
Friday, December 2, 2016
6:00 PM

Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery
Memorial Drive
Arlington, VA  22211