Jay William Hulslander, 52, passed away on Sunday, November 16, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Even in the hardest moments, his vibrant spirit, quick wit, and deep love for his family never wavered. Jay will be remembered as a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend. A private service to celebrate his life will be held at Vandemore Funeral Home officiated by Reverend Dr. Chris Ritter. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Jay's memory.
Jay was born on August 3, 1973, to Darlene Loftus and Richard Hulslander, both of Geneseo. He attended Riverdale schools through his sophomore year. He completed his junior and senior years at Monadnock Regional High School in Swanzey, New Hampshire, graduating in 1991. Jay began his college years at Keene State College in New Hampshire before transferring to Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). There, he was an active member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. After college, Jay returned to Illinois, where he joined his father and brother in Hulslander Construction, operating equipment and trucking.
Jay’s fun-loving personality and quick humor brought laughter to many occasions. Some of his favorite things were listening to country music, reading, and spending time with family and friends. An excellent slalom water-skier, Jay delighted his loved ones with his adventurous moves. He was also blessed with remarkable musical talent, playing multiple instruments - most notably the trumpet and both acoustic and electric drums. The laughter, music, and memories shared with Jay will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is preceded in death by his father Richard Hulslander. He is survived by his mother Darlene Loftus (Jim) Burns, Dan (Lili) Carlson, brother Rod (Jodie) Hulslander and nephew Wyatt, sister Ann Hulslander (Randy) Dishong and nieces Taylin and Kinsley.