A great man was promoted to Heaven on Saturday, July 22, 2023.
Kenneth Richard Hulbert was born in Rice Lake, Wisconsin on May 18, 1932. He married Vera Mae Cutsforth on February 2, 1952 in Duluth, Minnesota. After 71 years of marriage, Ken would say “it’s a good start!”
Ken attended school through the 8th grade but never stopped learning throughout his life. He was a smart man and could do just about anything. Ken’s message when sending his children off to school was “learn a bunch!”
He began working at the age of 9, delivering newspapers and working for farmers. Over the years, Ken worked construction jobs, on the iron docks and was a restaurant cook. He tried several times to join the service but problems with his knees kept him from passing a physical. He sailed on the Great Lakes with the Merchant Marines. Ken drove semi for JATCO in Janesville and later for Varco-Pruden in Evansville. His driving career spanned 42 years and he was proud to say he never had a reportable accident.
Ken always said “Nothing is more important than family.” He proved that with his devotion and love for his wife, Vera Mae. Even while struggling with Alzheimer’s, he reminded his children to “take care of mommy.” His days were happiest when his grandchildren and great-grandchildren came to visit. Ken would tell his family to “hurry back” and stand at the window to wave goodbye.
He enjoyed fishing and bear hunting in Canada, riding his motorcycle, concerts at the park with his wife, finding treasures at auctions and had a lifelong interest in cars. He entertained family and friends with his many stories.
Ken leaves behind a family that was so blessed to be loved by him: Vera Mae of Albany, Kathy Nieman of Brodhead, John (Vicki) of Monticello, Keith (Kim) of Dodgeville, Beth (Gunther) Marx of Evansville, Mike (Tami Hycner) of Brodhead, Karl of Evansville, Teresa (Dan) Andersen of Evansville, 16 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents Clem and Ada, siblings Gen, Art, Jean and Wesley, and daughter-in-law, Julie (Mauerman) Hulbert.
Ken made friends with everyone he met and anyone that met him had great respect for him. Ken worked hard all his life and enjoyed every day. As family said, “He was a true gentleman” and “Heaven certainly gained an angel. I’ll bet he is already chatting up a storm!”
Private services will be held at SHRINER HAGER GOHLKE Funeral Home in Monroe. Burial will take place at Hillcrest Cemetery, Albany.
All are invited to join the family for a luncheon at the Albany Lions Club on Friday, July 28, 2023 from 12:30 to 2:30. Condolences may be sent to the family at shriner111.com.
