Charles Joseph Bulicek "King of the Turtle Hunters," 83, of Cedar Rapids died Sunday, January 13, 2008 at St. Luke's Hospital after a brief illness.  Services will be 1 p.m. Thursday, January 17, 2008 at Brosh Chapel in Cedar Rapids, with Rev. William Harnish presiding.  Military rites will be conducted by the Hanford American Legion Post 5.   Burial will follow in Czech National Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Brosh Chapel in Cedar Rapids and for an hour prior to services Thursday at the chapel.

Charles was born June 2, 1924 in Cedar Rapids, the son of Charles and Sadie Metala Bulicek.  Charles served in the US Army Airforce during World War II.  He was a pilot serving in South Africa and Cairo, Egypt.  He married Darlene Sirowy on November 17, 1947 at Hus Memorial Presbyterian Church.  Charlie sold advertising for Hamm's Beer, and ran the Czech Inn Bar from 1964 thru the early 70's, in the Czech Village. Charlie enjoyed spending time turtle hunting, fishing, hunting, and working on go karts in the garage.  He was a loving husband, dad and grandpa and will be missed by all, especially his beloved boys Greg and Jeff, who have spent so much time enjoying life with him.  Charlie was a member of the American Legion, AMVETS, and the 40 & 8's.

Charles is survived by his wife Darlene; his daughter Diane (Marty) Gienapp of Anamosa; sons Greg Bulicek of Cedar Rapids and Jeff (Paula) Bulicek of Monticello; twelve grandchildren: Kelly, Matt, Carrie, Mike, Jakob, Nathan, Todd, C.J., Sadie, Kim, Lindsey, and Colton; eight greatgrandchildren; and his stepbrother Jake (Pam) Bulicek of Swisher.   He was preceded in death by his parents and his mother in law Lillian Sirowy, whom he dearly loved.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

"I love you so much"