Born in 1924 to Carroll and Florence Hull in Yakima, he attended Ahtanum School, Yakima High School, and then Whitworth College. Before graduating, he served two years in the Army Air Corps, from 1944-1945.
It was at college that he met Ruth, the love of his life, to whom he was married for 61 years. They married in 1947 and returned to Yakima, where Hugh worked in the family business as a fruit grower at Hull Ranches in West Valley. There they raised four children: Steve, Deb, Tim, and Phil.
Hugh loved spending time with his family. There were many wonderful weekend adventures that involved hiking, skiing, hunting, horseback riding or time at the family cabin. Hugh was an outdoorsman who loved to hike. He explored many of the trails throughout the Cascades with Ruth, his children, and grandchildren.
He was active in the community. He sat on the first school board at West Valley High School during the founding of the school district. He was a charter member of Westminster Presbyterian Church (now Yakima Covenant Church), where he served many terms as an elder, taught Sunday School and sang in the choir. He enjoyed leading bible studies through Bible Study Fellowship for many years.
Hugh’s warmth and kindness will be greatly missed. To his family and friends, he was the epitome of patience, humility, and grace — which he peppered with a sly sense of humor. More than anything, he will be remembered for his unwavering faith in Christ. He studied the Bible daily and relied on scripture as a guide through life’s challenges and joys. This quiet but steadfast devotion was a model for those around him. On learning of his passing, a friend said, “Everyone who knew Hugh was touched by him.”
He spent the last years of his life at Apple Creek Adult Family Homes, where he was well cared for and loved.
Hugh is preceded in death by his wife Ruth, parents Carroll and Florence, and brother David (Gene). He will be lovingly remembered by his children Steve (BJ), Deb (Tom) Dykstra, Tim (Shelly), and Phil (Kim), along with his 9 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 26 at 10:00 a.m. at Yakima Covenant Church, 6015 Summitview Ave, Yakima.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Union Gospel Mission.
