Hal Jay Eatchel

He was born on February 26, 1944, in Ogden, Utah, and spent an adventurous childhood in Kaysville. As the youngest of five siblings by many years, Hal was particularly close with his parents, frequently accompanying them on memorable trips to his favorite places, including Fish Lake and Yellowstone National Park.

Hal graduated from Davis High School in 1962. He often joked that finishing high school was one of his proudest early accomplishments, because at the time, he just “didn’t feel like doing all that.” In his youth, he developed a passion for golf and hunting—activities he pursued with enthusiasm for many years.

In 1965, Hal was drafted into the United States Army and served with pride until 1967, including an active tour of duty in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967. Initially assigned to clerical work, he requested a transfer to the infantry, where he distinguished himself through skill and courage, earning commendations for marksmanship and recognition from his officers for his bravery. Hal often reflected that surviving the war was one of his greatest challenges, having served in regions known for landmines and booby traps. He remained especially close to his Army comrades—fondly remembered as “The Three Es”: Eatchel, Edgett, and Elkins.

Following his military service, Hal worked as a physical therapist at LDS Hospital, where he dedicated 38 years to helping others heal. It was there he met a patient who would change his life, Lorene Ann Woolsey. Their connection was instant, and they married on January 19, 1972. Together they built a loving home and raised two children: Valerie and Justin. When asked what he was most proud of in life, Hal would immediately say, “My wife and two kids.”

Hal had a deep love for the outdoors and spent many joyful days hiking and fishing with his family. He was also a voracious reader, often juggling multiple books at once. His tall but orderly stack of books was a constant presence by his bedside, reflecting his insatiable curiosity—especially for history.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry B. Eatchel and Eda E. Larsen; his brothers, Donald B., Eugene W., and Leland “Lee” M. Eatchel; and his beloved grandson, Spencer Jay Eatchel.

Hal is survived by the love of his life, Lorene; his daughter, Valerie (Jason) Christensen; his son, Justin (Jennifer) Eatchel; his cherished grandchildren: Joshua, Faith, Elisse, Brielle, Jackson, and William; and his sister, Cleone L. Kynaston.

In his final years, Hal expressed deep gratitude for Valerie, who cared for him with dedication and compassion. He often praised her home-cooked meals, calling them “the best he’s ever had.”

Friends and family may gather for a visitation on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 with interment to follow.