Paul Adam Hulett

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Paul Adam Hulett at Riverside Medical Center, Kankakee IL on Mother’s Day, May 11th, 2025, at the age of 88. He was born on November 16th, 1936, at Schmitt Memorial Hospital in Beardstown, IL. Preceded in death by his father, Melvin Harold Hulett; his mother, Katherine Mary Keirn; sister, Sylvia Margaret Rigg – Lynch; and brother, Richard Keirn Hulett. Survivors include his nephew, Michael (Carol) Hulett; and two nieces, Susan Lynch - Lawton and Jean Hulett - Slater. He sustained brain injury at birth, due to instruments used during his premature delivery. His mother lovingly cared for Paul at home until he was 17 years of age. Paul was initially admitted to Dixon Developmental Center, IL in 1954, later transferred to Manteno Mental Health Center, IL in 1970 and by 1973 he became a resident of Shapiro Developmental Center in Kankakee IL for the remainder of his life. Being one of the oldest residents at Shapiro he became known as “Grandpa” by the staff. Paul was nonverbal and had the cognition of a very young child. It was the caring staff at Shapiro that knew Paul and his life best. The staff describe Paul as “a fun loving and passive character with his own unique qualities. He was the light in a room especially when he smiled. He loved to wear pull-over long-sleeved polo shirts, sweaters, and T-shirts. Paul pairs his shirts and sweaters with nice slacks or trousers daily. He was very organized. Paul preferred his hair cut short. Paul loved to go out to eat. He loved any restaurant that served spaghetti, he loved spaghetti. He loved to eat at buffets. He loved to go to the Dairy Queen to get Hot Fudge Sundae which was his favorite. He loved shopping too. He would usually request to look at items at stores and enjoy it. In the evening after supper, Paul enjoyed watching T.V. and listening to soft, quiet music in his room while sitting on his rocking chair. Paul liked to sit outside on the patio and watch the deer and other wildlife with his peers and care givers. Staff at Shapiro will miss him dearly. The unit will not be the same with his passing. Paul’s family would like to express our most sincere gratitude to Shapiro Developmental Center for the many years of wonderful and consistent care provided by so many staff involved over so many years. And to Clancy-Gernon Funeral Homes for their services. May God bless Paul and give him the wings he so deserves.

Paul Adam Hulett

November 16, 1936 - May 11, 2025