J.T. Hulce Obituary

Those who knew Josh Hulce will remember his irreverent wit, intelligence, thoughtful perspectives, generosity, friendliness to all – regardless of their station in life, and unique ability to make every person in the room feel like the most interesting one there. Born in Chelsea, Michigan, he grew up with a mischievous glint in his blue eyes and an early sense of independence, changing his name from Jerry to Josh at age seven by proudly sewing his new name onto a sweater.
In middle school, Josh, his elder brother Larry, his father E.L., and his beloved mother Thelma Bahnmiller Hulce relocated to Roscommon, Michigan where small-town life shaped much of who he became. There, he spent his days as a defensive end and linebacker on the high-school football team-the Bucks-and working as a produce boy at the A&P. It was at the A&P that he learned a lesson he carried throughout life: always keep things looking "bristol." That simple principle-take pride in the details-became a lifelong philosophy.
During his college years as a Phi Delt at Northwestern University, Josh met Carol Ann Jones, a baritone ukulele-playing Pi Phi whose warmth and whimsy caught his attention one evening at "The Grill." Their first conversation began over a crossword puzzle and never really stopped. Two years later, they married while Josh was studying at Michigan Law School, beginning a 62-year partnership filled with humor, devotion, adventure, and love for their daughter Hillary.
Following law school, Josh joined the law firm of Pepper, Hamilton & Sheetz in Philadelphia, PA. In a few years, dreams of champagne powder in the Rocky Mountains lured the family to Denver, Colorado, where he began working in the legal department of Johns Manville Corporation and later became President and Director. After 14 years with Johns Manville, entrepreneurship beckoned, and he partnered with a gourmet food distributor, Food Products, Inc. and later founded BNZ Materials, Inc.
Josh was avid golfer. With six holes-in-one and a large library of books on golf theory, he was always happy to share his latest "breakthrough." Friends affectionately teased him as a "club collector;" and he cherished every one; Cherry Hills, Denver Country Club, Columbine, Castle Pines, Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club, Ocean Reef, Audubon, Club Pelican Bay, Old Collier, and, most recently, Royal Poinciana. His originality, passion for the game, determination, and sportsmanship left an enduring mark at each, and he will be missed by friends and staff alike.
Golf aside, he enjoyed college football Saturdays, classic movies and books, the fizz of Vernors Ginger Ale, Hammonds Pretzels, and the daily ritual of his blue stretching bench. He is survived by his wife, daughter, son-in-law David Brotherton, brother, brothers and sisters-in-law, and extended family.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the NCH Baker CVICU, the compassionate staff at the Cove at the Marbella in Pelican Bay, and his devoted Caregiver, Evelyn Anthony, for their love and support. May he rest in peace.
A memorial mass will be held at 10:00 am on January 24, 2026 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Naples, FL followed by a Celebration of Life. He will be interred at St. James Episcopal Church in Lancaster, PA.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Avow Hospice of Naples and The NCH Baker Heart Center.
To sign his guest register or to leave online condolences please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com.
Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.