Dr. Charles "Chuck" Ellinger

1934 - 2020

Dr. Charles "Chuck" Ellinger
June 8, 1934 - December 19, 2020
Lexington, Kentucky - Dr. Charles 'Chuck" Ellinger went home to Jesus on December 19th. Born June 8, 1934 in Lancaster, Ohio to Bernice & Leroy Ellinger. Chuck graduated from Lancaster HS where he lettered in three sports. He set a football record with four interceptions in one game. He attended The Ohio State University where he worked up to three jobs to fund his tuition. He graduated The Ohio State dental school earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS). He was then called to serve his country as a Captain in the US Army Dental Corps at Fort Hood Texas. Chuck loved serving his country and was proud to be a Veteran. After serving, he returned to OSU to earn his Masters in Prosthodontics (MSc). He then made a one year commitment to help establish the UK Dental School.
Falling in love with Lexington and UK, he decided to make teaching his career, serving 34 years as a professor, and later chairman, of Prosthodontics. During his tenure he also served on the UK Athletic Board and as the Academic Ombuds. He lectured and consulted worldwide. He authored the textbook 'Synopsis of Complete Dentures' and received the Schweitzer International Research award. Chuck was Diplomate of the Board of Prosthodontics and a member of the Academy where he was recognized as Prosthodontist of the year. One of his most treasured honors was being nominated by his dental students and chosen by alumni as the UK Great Teacher of the Year.
Chuck was also known for his interest in politics and serving his community. He served 13 years as an LFUCG Councilperson. Chuck was an entrepreneur at heart, and one of his most successful businesses, the iconic Rogers Restaurant. This Ellinger family run business was the oldest restaurant in town (established in 1923). Chuck cherished the community of customers and dedicated employees alike. Living in Kentucky, Chuck was passionate about horse racing. He dabbled in horse ownership and had several successful wins at Keeneland and Churchill Downs. Additional passions included coaching his son, serving as Beaumont PTO President and as St John's Lutheran Church President. Favorite pastimes included poker with his friends, competitive duplicate bridge, and coaching the dental school basketball team, the Molars.
Of all his achievements, he was most proud of his family: his wife of 62 years Janet, his 3 children Susan Jackson, Stacy Siegel (Roger) and Chuck II, along with his adored grandchildren, Bennett & Tucker Jackson, and Brian, Chase (Hailey) & Josh Siegel. Also survived by his brothers Dick (Helen) & Ken, along with a multitude of lifelong friends.
A special thank you must be given to the VA medical staff for their compassionate care and kindness. A private graveside service with military honors will be held at Camp Nelson National Cemetery on December 23rd at 12:30. A celebration of Chuck's life will be held in 2021. In lieu of flowers, a foundation to honor Dr. Chuck Ellinger will be established in 2021.