Frank Hallinger

Frank Hallinger, lovingly known as Rusty, Dad, Pappy, and Nitty, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was 77 years old.

Frank was born on March 6, 1948, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Frank John Hallinger Sr. and Ann Tymel Hallinger. He built a life rooted in family, service, and friendship.

Frank graduated from El Campo High School with the Class of 1966 and went on to earn his Associate Degree from Wharton County Junior College. Shortly after, he proudly served his country as a United States Marine during the Vietnam War. His service was marked by honor and bravery, earning him the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, Vietnam Service Medal with one star, Rifle Marksman Badge, Combat Air Crew Insignia with three stars, and the Strike/Flight Medal with Bronze Star #5.

Following his military service, Frank dedicated more than 40 years of his life working at Wharton Tractor Supply before retiring in 2014. He was also a proud member of the VFW in Wharton, Texas, where he continued to honor the bonds of brotherhood formed through service.

Frank shared a beautiful love story with his wife, Karen Wenglar. The two were high school classmates who graduated together in 1966, went on to live separate lives, and later found their way back to one another. From the moment they reunited, they were inseparable-where one was, the other was close behind. Their love was steady, joyful, and deeply devoted.

Frank was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife, Karen Wenglar; his sons Chad and Kristy Hallinger, Heath and Audrey Hallinger, Ryan Hallinger, and Kyle Hallinger; his stepchildren Sean and Angela Wenglar, and Juan and Sarah Vasquez.

He leaves behind a legacy carried on through his grandchildren: Jayce and Jerell Hallinger; Skylar Hallinger (Kinley), Seth Hallinger (Dharma), Spencer Hallinger (Lauren); Isaiah, Noah, and Joseph Hallinger; James Hallinger; Luke and Olivia Wenglar; and Emilia, Eli, and Eleanor Vasquez. He was also blessed with a great-grandchild, Adaline Hallinger, who brought him immense joy. Frank is survived by his sisters Cheryl and John Roach, and Becky and Robert Hardin.

He was preceded in death by his sister Cindy Waligura and his parents, Ann and Frank Hallinger Sr.

Frank's heart extended beyond people-his loyal dog, Ivy Elizabeth, was always by his side. He also held lifelong bonds with his special childhood friends Charles, Evon, and Delbur.

Frank loved spending time with his family, attending every possible game, performance, and activity for his grandchildren and nieces and nephews. He enjoyed watching football and baseball, taking long drives with Karen and Ivy, and simply being present for the people he loved.

Frank was generous, family-oriented, and a true friend. He embodied unconditional love and lived it daily-through quiet acts of kindness, unwavering support, and a heart that never stopped giving.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday, January 24 at Triska Funeral Home. Memorial services will follow at 10 a.m.

Memorial donations in memory of Frank may be made to Everyday Heroes in El Campo or the Wharton VFW.