Erman Hugh Hale, 88 years old, of Lompoc, California, passed away on September 16, 2018, at Stanford University Hospital following complications of heart bypass surgery. Hugh was born in Tuttle, Oklahoma, on August 4, 1930, to James and Viola Hale. He grew up with two sisters Faye and Delores and one brother John and his Uncle Earl who he called his "brother."

On his 17th birthday, Hugh enlisted in the Army and served as a military policeman until his honorable separation just four months later. He then chose to join the U.S. Navy and served his country from 1947- 1951. While serving in the Navy, Hugh was the flight deck director on the USS Rendova CVE based out of San Diego, California. Hugh also served during active war time in Korea. After receiving an honorable discharge from the Navy, Hugh chose again to place his country before himself and enlist in the US Air Force.

In 1952 Hugh met the first love of his life, Betty, in Arvin, California. They were married soon after and began their life together as a young Air Force couple. Hugh was a Missile Mechanic throughout his Air Force career at Norton AFB, Edwards AFB, Johnson AFB and Vandenberg AFB. He retired as a TSgt in 1971.

He had various jobs following his military career. One job in particular was at the Lompoc Furniture Mart for many years. Hugh truly enjoyed his retirement life and spending time with his growing family. After the passing of his first wife Betty in 2004, he was lucky enough to find love again. Doris was a wonderful wife to Hugh for the past 10 years. She shared in his passion for Fox News, watching Westerns, and loving on the grandkids.

Hugh is survived by his loving wife Doris, his children son, Robert Hale (Nancy), daughter Robin Hale, son Ronald Hale and daughter Rebecca Hale. He was also lucky to have stepchildren who adored him - Charlene McGrath Bayes, Wesley McGrath, Buster McGrath and Billy McGrath. Hugh had numerous grandchildren as well as great grandchildren who he loved spending time with. Hugh was preceded in death by his first wife Betty Hale, his sisters Faye and Delores, as well as his Uncle Earl.

A public viewing will be held on Thursday, September 20, 2018, from 5 pm to 8 pm, at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary, 123 North A St. Lompoc, California 93436. A graveside service will be held on Friday, September 21, 2018, at 10 am at the Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery, 600 South C St., Lompoc. A reception will be held at the Providence Landing Clubhouse 699 Mercury Ave., Lompoc. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Stanford Hospital, Make A Gift (makeagift.stanford.edu)