Donald Hugh Hulse

Donald Hugh Hulse, Age 87, passed away on September 24, 2025 at his home in Pocatello. He was born in Kingman, Arizona to Robert and Evalyn Hulse on January 20, 1938.

Don began his career in the United States Navy in 1955, ultimately climbing to Senior Chief Petty Office (SCPO) prior to his retirement in 1975. His early days in the Navy were spent in Sub School at the Naval Arco Proving grounds in Arco, ID.

While in Sub School, unbeknownst to Don and Kay, a fateful blind date would turn into 65 years of marital bliss, the creation of a beautiful family, and an amazing life together. After being introduced by a friend, they both became smitten with one another and soon began dating. On their second date, Don would be introduced to Kay’s mother and father. Don got wind that her father’s chainsaw wasn’t working properly and before long, the chainsaw was in pieces on the floor of the well-house, much to her father’s chagrin. After seeing his equipment in pieces on the floor, her father lamented, “Well, it looks like I’m going to have buy a new chainsaw.” But before long, the familiar sound of his saw came ringing from the back yard. A testament to Don’s mechanical abilities, the chainsaw was fixed. Don had won over Kay’s father. Don and Kay married soon after in Pocatello, ID.

His love of the submarines, the U.S. Navy, and tinkering coalesced when Don made a miniature submarine as a living advertisement to raise awareness for the USS Idaho Commissioning Committee. Don and his submarine were regular participants in local events and parades.

In addition to tinkering, woodworking, and, in general, being very handy, Don also enjoyed spending time outdoors in the garden where he was fond of growing tomatoes, corn potatoes and other vegetables.

He also enjoyed sailing, and a friend of the family happened to own a sailboat. He allowed the boat to be parked on the property all year and for many years until the friend moved away to Washington. Many weekends were spent working on the boat or sailing at American Falls Reservoir.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Kay Hulse; his devoted children Patrick Hulse and Karen Hulse; and his granddaughter Nicole and grandson Sean.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, October 3, 2025 at Wilks Funeral Home, 211 W Chubbuck Road, Chubbuck, ID. A visitation will be held prior beginning at 10:00 am. Burial will follow the service at Mountain View Cemetery, 1520 S. 5th Avenue, Pocatello, ID.

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