Kenneth Charles Hull, Jr.

Kenneth Charles Hull, Jr., a cherished educator, devoted wrestling coach, lifelong rancher, and steadfast community member, passed away on April 24, 2026, in La Junta, the city of his birth, surrounded by those who loved him dearly. Born on April 4, 1944, Ken’s life was one deeply rooted in the soil and spirit of southeastern Colorado, a tapestry woven with sincerity, laughter, and commitment to the generations he nurtured.

Ken’s journey began in La Junta, where he developed an early affinity for the land and its rhythms. A graduate of Otero Junior College and the University of Southern Colorado, he embarked upon a distinguished career in education and public service. He first dedicated himself as a teacher at Crowley County Schools before broadening his scope, contributing his talents to the ASCS office in Rocky Ford and later to the Otero County Assessor’s Office as a mapper—a role that spoke to his keen eye and meticulous nature. Yet, it was the classroom and the wrestling mat where Ken’s passion truly ignited, returning to teaching in La Junta public schools and culminating at Las Animas High School, where he eventually retired. His students admired him; they recall with fondness his good humor, his readiness to lend a helping hand, and his tireless enthusiasm. Such was his impact that he was honored as Citizen of the Year by his own pupils, a testament to the profound respect he earned from those he taught and mentored.

Beyond the school walls, Ken’s heart remained bound to the ranch, an enduring love that shaped his identity throughout his life. He found joy in the simple pleasures of ranching and the camaraderie formed over countless cups of coffee at the Swink gas station, where friends gathered and stories flowed freely. This blending of work, community, and friendship enriched each day and fortified the bonds that made life meaningful.

Ken’s family was the anchor of his existence. His beloved wife, Lana Hull, stood beside him through life’s seasons. Together, they raised two sons, Brett (and his wife Leslee) of Monument, and Lee of Aurora. Ken also embraced his role as a stepfather to Chris Eddy and Brett Eddy, both of La Junta. The legacy of his love extends into five grandchildren—Michelle Hull, Christopher Hull, Courtney McCall, Kelsey Love, and Brayton Eddy—and further into ten great-grandchildren, whose lives he was privileged to witness unfold: Vera Hull, Andi Abalos, Peyton Hull, Hazel Hull, Winnifred McCall, Emma McCall, Truitt McCall, Simon McCall, Taesha Love, and Paisley Love. His sister, Karen Poulignot of Akron, remains a cherished part of the family circle. Ken was preceded in death by his parents and by his brother, Fred Hull, whose memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew them.

Ken Hull’s life was a testament to the virtues of dedication, kindness, and humor. His students still greet him in their words and memories, attesting to a legacy that moves beyond time. A man who gave his all—whether guiding young athletes or tending the land—he has left an indelible mark on the community he loved.

In his passing, we honor the fullness of a remarkable life, a man whose roots in La Junta never wavered, whose laughter will echo in the halls of memory, and whose spirit will forever inspire those who continue to walk the paths he helped pave. Kenneth Charles Hull, Jr., will be remembered not just as a teacher or a coach, nor simply as a rancher or a friend, but as a beacon of light whose influence enriched many and whose absence will be keenly felt. Rest in peace, Ken, knowing you have made this world a better place.

Services are pending.