Charles Olinger

Dr. Charles Olinger passed away peacefully on February 5th, 2025. "Charlie" was born to Dwight and Beatrice Olinger on August 10th, 1942, in St. Louis, Missouri. After growing up across the southwest, Charlie graduated from Highland High School in Albuquerque, NM in 1960. He went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Biology at the University of New Mexico where he was a member of Sigma Chi. While studying for his Master's Degree, he was accepted by the University of Missouri School of Veterinary Medicine. He earned a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine and was a member of Phi Zeta honor society. After graduating in 1970, Dr. Olinger first worked in Santa Barbara and then joined his long-term business partner, Dr. David Henthorn, in south Louisiana. They operated several animal hospitals and shared many adventures caring for domestic and exotic animals. "Dr. O" always advocated for his patients and responsible pet ownership.

Charlie married his wife of 54 years, Susan Simon Olinger, on October 10th, 1970. They were blessed with a son, David, who was Charlie's favorite fishing and skiing buddy. In 1989, the family relocated to Albuquerque and Dr. Olinger purchased Vet-Co, where he happily cared for pet dogs and cats for over 30 years. He also reconnected with childhood friends and enjoyed outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, bird hunting and fishing, as well as continuing education classes from UNM. Charlie and Susan were lucky to travel the world together and visited all seven continents, with Africa and Antarctica being his favorite destinations. Charle was an intelligent, adventurous, and kind man who will be dearly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and patients.

Charlie is survived by his beloved wife Susan; son, David Olinger and wife Erika Stevens Olinger, and cherished grandchildren, Luke and Elyse, of Edmond, OK; his sister, Barbara Lynch and husband Jay Lynch of Bayfield, CO; and nephews and their spouses, Mark and Martha Meiering, of Albuquerque, NM; Patrick and Mindy Meiering, of Durango, CO; and Christopher Meiering and Kim Milligan, of Durango, CO.

Friends and family are invited to honor Charlie at a service on Saturday, February 15th, at 11:30 a.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria Blvd., Albuquerque, NM with Rev. Seth Finch officiating. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Animal Humane of New Mexico or an animal charity of your choice.