Colonel John G. Gergulis, U.S. Army (Retired), 89, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away on October 15, 2026, while vacationing in St. Augustine, Florida, with his wife, Babes. His sons, Kenneth G. Gergulis and Craig H. Struhs, were by his side during his final moments as he went to be with his Lord.
John lived an extraordinary life marked by distinguished military service, a deep sense of duty, and an enduring devotion to the soldiers he commanded. A proud career Army officer, he dedicated his professional life to serving his country, leading troops, and fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to him.
A Soldier’s Soldier
To the men who served under his command, John was known affectionately as Colonel “G” and, to many, simply “Dad.” He took tremendous pride in his soldiers and maintained close relationships with many of them throughout his life. Their reunions, shared memories, and lasting friendships brought him great happiness.
A proud 1959 graduate of The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, John was commissioned as an infantry officer in the United States Army. His distinguished military career took him around the world, including two tours of duty in Vietnam, numerous command and staff assignments, and leadership positions of significant responsibility.
Throughout his career, John received numerous military decorations and honors recognizing his leadership, service, and courage. Among them were the prestigious Legion of Merit; the Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device for valor and two Oak Leaf Clusters; the Combat Infantryman Badge; and the Master Parachutist Badge.
John remained a central figure in organizations and reunions with his fellow combat veterans.These were relationships forged through shared sacrifice, responsibility, and experiences that few outside the military could fully understand. He carried with him the memory of the soldiers who were killed in action, and that loss remained a profound and lasting burden throughout his life.
John is survived by his devoted wife, Babes Struhs Gergulis; his sister, Angel Gergulis Ward (John), whom he affectionately called “Soo Soo”; his children Kenneth G. Gergulis (Darlene), Alisa K. M. Smith (Shawn) and Craig H. Struhs.
His is also survived by his grandchildren William J. McLean (The Citadel, Class of 2026), Arabella S. McLean, John R. McLean, Milana G. McLean, Henry A. McLean, Wyatt J. Struhs, and Barrett H. Smith; his niece Christina Ward Cullen (Ken) and his nephew John B. Ward, a trusted medical professional whose guidance and support were invaluable to the family during John’s final illness.
John was preceded in death by his parents, George J. Gergulis and Katina D. Gergulis.
A Final Salute
John’s wish was to be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery, among the generations of American servicemen and women who devoted their lives to our country. After a lifetime of carrying the memories of those lost in war, may he finally be at peace, reunited with the soldiers he never forgot.
Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant
Arrangements for his interment with military honors at Arlington National Cemetery are being coordinated.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Colonel John G. Gergulis’ memory may be made to:
The Colonel John and Babes Gergulis K9 Protection Fund to purchase life-saving ballistic cool vests that are custom-made for each K9.
Richland County Sheriff’s Foundation
PO Box 1182
Columbia, South Carolina 29202
Joni James, Foundation President [email protected] 803-429-6659
Via the Fund Website: RCSFSC.com click the donate button and in the notes section of your donation, type for: The Colonel John and Babes Gergulis K9 Protection Fund.
St. Johns Family Funeral Home in St. Augustine, Florida is in charge of arrangements.