Gerald Hulick

Gerald "Jerry" Hulick passed away peacefully at home in Berrien Springs on June 7, 2024, one day before his 86th birthday. He was born June 8, 1938, in Trenton, N.J.

Jerry was known for his master cabinet and carpentry skills in communities, where he and the family have lived. At Crosswick, N.J., in the 1960s, Jerry owned his own business with hired employees creating reproductions of antique furniture. If one brought a picture or sketch, he could also create their design. In addition to replicating furniture, he made table lamps, plaques, gavels and even his own wooden biography scrapbook from a white oak tree branch.

When he took a break from woodworking, he was employed in a management position with the New Jersey Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. He managed the properties and drove a semi-tractor trailer transporting pastors and employees to or from other areas.

While employed at Andrews University, he utilized more of his woodworking skills in various buildings, notably as a cabinet craftsman during the construction of the science complex and Andrews Academy. At Little Lake Industries in Pennsylvania, he built Redwood furniture where students from Pine Forge Academy could work to supplement the cost of their education.

The family have pictures and memories of a paddle boat that he built with the saw that was an attachment to the Kirby vacuum cleaner. The functionality of this boat and every project he completed was a reminder of the detail, time, and love put into it. Co-workers at Lakeland Hospital (now Corewell Health) affectionately gave him the title, "Wood Wizard." His woodworking skills were passed on to his daughters and grandsons, while his passion and love of gardening continues with his daughters today.

Dulcinea (Duci) Hernandez Hulick and he were high school sweethearts and would have celebrated 67 years of marriage in August of 2024. Daughters: Heidi, Tammy and Wendy blessed and completed the family unit. Friends noted the welcoming atmosphere of their home with a team effort as they entertained guests around their dining table, shared picnics in their yard, or one might be invited to join them in a camping experience. Following retirement, the couple wintered at Pine Lake Retreat owned by the Florida Conference of Seventh-day Adventists with both doing volunteer service. Jerry was a member of the Berrien Springs Village Seventh-day Adventist Church. Duci faithfully gave loving care during the last years of his health decline.

Survivors include his wife, Dulcinea (Duci) Hernandez Hulick; his three daughters: Heidi (Richard) Camacho, Tammy Hulick and Wendy Hulick; his brother, Elliott Hulick and sister, Carolyn Pullen; 12 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren and many lifetime friends. He was preceded in death by his parents: Forman and Betty Hulick and three grandsons.

In honor of Jerry's wishes a private graveside service is planned for the family at a later date.

Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.heritage-chapel.com.