Jeanette Hull
April 22, 1952 - January 27, 2026
Obituary
Jeanette A. (Fortney) Hull, age 73, of Big Patch, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. Born on April 22, 1952, in Hazel Green, she was the daughter of Orville and Alice (Mohlmann) Fortney. She was a 1970 graduate of Platteville High School. On June 14, 1972, Jeanette was united in marriage to David C. Hull, in Marfa, Texas. They shared 27 years of marriage. David preceded her in death on July 25, 1998. Following David's passing, Jeanette found a companion in her “Honey” Cletus Russell. The two spent 23 wonderful years together before his passing.
Throughout her life, Jeanette was known for her hardworking spirit. While she held many positions over the years, her most cherished role was working in the kitchen at Westview Elementary School where she dedicated twelve years of service to the school community.
To Jeanette, there was no such thing as a stranger. She loved to talk and would strike up a conversation with anyone she met. This social spirit extended to her love for her “critters”. Her hobby farm was a sanctuary for many animals including horses, calves, chickens, pigeons, rabbits and even fox. A dedicated breeder of purebred Dachshunds, Jeanette was also the local safety net for strays; she never met an animal she wouldn't take in, and she made sure every single one was given a name. Her vibrance was also reflected in her yard, where she spent many happy hours gardening both vegetables and flowers.
Jeanette is survived by her two children, Amy (Todd) Matheson and Ron (Beth) Hull; six grandchildren, Reece (Ben) Matheson-Andersen, Emma (Nate) Krien-Hull, Jena (Even) Hull, Kadin Matheson, Hope Hull, and Wyatt Hull; and one great-grandson, Ryker Hull. She is further survived by her sister Barbara Myers; several sisters- and brothers-in-law including Patti Fortney who was like a sister; Cletus's children, whom she cared for dearly, Becky Harrison, Tammie (Joe) Vacha, Craig Russell, and Shelley (Phil) Spensley. She was preceded in death by her husband, David; companion Cletus; parents; brothers Joe and Jack; her sister Liz Bartle; and nephew Billy Jack Myers.
Friends and relatives are invited to attend a visitation on Monday, February 2, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Melby's Funeral Home and Crematory in Platteville, WI. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 PM, with burial to take place at Big Patch Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Jeanette Hull Memorial Fund. Online condolences can be made at www.melbyfh.com.