Be Like Steve

By Colleen Martinson, VP of Development and Communications

Attending the Celebration of Life for Steve Hulsizer, I had the privilege of hearing stories of a life well-lived. Steve played many roles in his 82 years on the planet: loving husband; caring friend; adventurous Naval officer; conscientious engineer; lifelong sailor.  

But I witnessed Steve’s role as dedicated neighbor and community member. I knew Steve for over 20 years, first meeting him when he volunteered at what came to be known as BloodWorks Northwest. I was his volunteer manager, his “boss” as he jokingly but very good-naturedly liked to call me.

He was a perfect volunteer – dedicated to his shift, on time, and always observant of SOPs. He was protective of equipment and the precious product he transported as a volunteer driver.

Many years later, I was unsurprised to see his and his wife Elsie’s names on the list of supporters at my new job in fundraising at Ballard Food Bank. He was the kind of man who cared if his neighbors had enough to eat. And as often is the case, those who give of their time also give what they can financially; they understand the critical value of both.  

Steve’s dry humor and good deeds were his hallmark and when I think back on my favorite “Steve stories,” that’s what shines through.

Though Parkinsons was already stealing his energy and freedom of movement, he and Elsie attended Ballard Bites & Brews in 2023, a fundraiser for the food bank. I’ll never forget one of my staff coming to me and whispering urgently, “Steve is here with a big check, but he didn’t buy a ticket yet. Should we let him in?”

“Oh yes,” I laughingly replied. “A nice check also gets you in the door!” The twinkle in Steve’s eyes showed me he enjoyed the moment.

Donations from community members like Steve and Elsie (and you) help families fill their carts with nutritious foods. Photo by Alabastro Photography.

Another story, shared with me by Elsie: When they were grocery shopping one day, and Steve noticed the dramatically higher prices on food, he said to her: “Look at these food prices! We need to donate more money to the food bank!” 

That was Steve. The kind of man who gave generously to his community simply because was the right thing to do. I am a better person because of him and his example of decency and care for community. As I said to my 18-year-old son recently. “We should all aspire to be like Steve.”