Harold Bull

HURST -- Harold "Hal" William Bull of Hurst passed away on Friday, March 1, 2013, at the age of 81 years.

Funeral Mass: 1 p.m. Wednesday at Saint John the Apostle Catholic Church in Richland Hills. Interment: Hal will be laid to rest in Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park in Colleyville. Rosary and viewing: 7 p.m. Tuesday at Lucas Funeral Home in Hurst.

He was born Oct. 2, 1931, in Sheridan, Wyo. Hal attended Plumb Creek grade school just outside of Sheridan and was valedictorian of his graduating class at Sheridan High School. Hal graduated from the University of Wyoming in 1952 with a degree in mechanical engineering.

After beginning his career with Cessna Aircraft Company in Wichita, Kan., Hal went on to Hiller Aircraft in the California Bay Area. The pinnacle of Hal's career was his 36 years of service as a mechanical engineer with Bell Helicopter where he provided solutions in design and state of the art technology in support of the United States military. Hal was given the responsibility to represent Bell helicopter internationally, including assignments in various countries ranging from Canada to Mogadishu. He was regarded as innovative and knowledgeable in his field.

Hal met the love of his life, Lorraine "Lori" Frances Gross, in Wichita, Kan., at a Knight's of Columbus dance. They were later married on Jan. 30, 1960. Hal and Lori had three sons: Brian William Bull born in Wichita, Kan.; Alan Edward Bull born in Stanford, Calif.; and Craig Randall Bull born in Fort Worth.

Hal's passion has always been his family and his sons' many friends. He was a loving and devoted father and kept involved in all of his sons' achievements. There was nothing like an evening with Hal, family and friends spending time together watching Cowboys, Rangers and Mavericks games . . . as well as the Stars.

Hal had an infectious laugh and a smart wit. He cultivated and nurtured many meaningful relationships within the circles of his work, family and church activities. It is important to note that Hal spent his time refining his knowledge in his retirement years. A lifelong scholar and an engineer at heart, Hal kept sharp with an understanding of science and math application.

Hal was preceded in death by his wife, Lorraine, and his twin brother, Charley Bull.

Survivors: Hal is survived by his sons, Brian William "Ronnie" Bull of Dallas, Alan Edward Bull and his wife, Linda, of Fort Worth and Craig Randall Bull of Dallas; sister, Mary Hulett and husband Arlo; brothers, George Bull and wife, Isabelle, Leonard Bull and wife, Donna, Albert Bull and wife, Janet, Danny Bull and wife, Barbara; and numerous nieces and nephews.