PORT ANGELES — Elva Hulett, born and raised on a farm in the 1950s, embodies a story of perseverance, dedication and an unwavering commitment to both her career and community. With a career spanning several decades in the banking industry and a legacy of service, her journey is a testament to hard work and resilience.
Hulett’s 50-year career in banking began in earnest at Port Angeles Savings and Loan, which was later succeeded by Great Northwest Federal Savings and then Washington Mutual. The final transition came with Chase, which acquired Washington Mutual in 2008 at 101 W. Front St.
“Chase is by far the best bank I have worked for as far as the technology and the support,” Hulett said. “It has been a good run.”
Growing up in a large family with six children, Hulett’s early years were shaped by the simplicity and industriousness typical of rural life in mid-20th century America.
“My ambitions as a child were wanting to be able to work and earn money. There wasn’t much spare money around our house,” she reflected, emphasizing the practical mindset that guided her from a young age.
Her early professional experiences were as varied as her interests. Hulett’s first job was at Habit Cleaners, a local establishment where she began to hone her work ethic. From there, she transitioned to a role as a dental assistant, a position she held for five years.
The banking industry, however, was where her future lay.
“I went from there to the bank as a teller,” she recounted.
Despite the lower salary of $240 a month compared to her previous role, the potential for advancement drew her to the financial sector.
Her dedication to the profession is evident in her extensive experience within the banking world. Hulett’s roles evolved to include accounting, loan officer, operations supervisor, assistant manager and eventually branch manager.
“I started as a teller and have held every position there is in the branch aspect of banking,” she said.
Her efforts were rewarded with the achievement of a level 2 premier branch status during her time as a manager, a testament to her leadership and commitment.
The evolution of banking technology marked a significant shift in Hulett’s career.
“The biggest change in the banking industry is technology,” she said. “There were no ATMs, no online banking. Any transactions were handled at the branch in person.”
From eight teller windows and long lines of customers to the advent of ATMs and online banking, Hulett witnessed the transformation of the industry firsthand.
“The most fascinating technological advancements were the ATMs and online banking,” she said. “You don’t even have to really leave your house.”
Hulett’s commitment to her job extends beyond mere employment; it is a source of personal fulfillment.
“The most rewarding aspect of my job is feeling a sense of job well done,” she said.
That dedication was evident during a significant challenge in 1981, when a disastrous computer conversion led to errors in approximately 3,200 mortgages. Hulett spent five months manually correcting those errors, a testament to her problem-solving skills and perseverance.
Balancing work with family life has not been without its challenges.
“It was definitely difficult when the children were young,” she said. “There wasn’t any sick leave, and there wasn’t any excuse for not coming to work. So you did what you did.”
Despite the obstacles, Hulett managed to maintain a successful career while raising two children with her husband, whom she married when she was 20. Their 52-year marriage is a pillar of stability and support.
Hulett’s children have continued to build on the family legacy. Her son, Aaron, is a flight nurse in Juneau, Alaska, while her daughter Haley and son-in-law Mark own local businesses, including the Great Northern Coffee Bar and Bada Bloom.
Hulett remains actively involved, helping care for her grandchildren.
”I’m paying it forward, what my mom did for me,” she said.
Retirement has been a phase of semi-retirement rather than complete withdrawal, Hulett said.
“I retired in 2011 and returned a couple months later to my 20-hour position as a part-time teller,” she explained.
That arrangement allows her to enjoy a balance of work and leisure while staying engaged with the community and her customers.
Looking back on her career, Hulett said she feels a deep sense of satisfaction.
“Reaching my 50th anniversary has been a goal over the last few years because it looked achievable,” she said, acknowledging the support from her colleagues and the joy of the milestone celebration. “It arrived so quickly. It feels good.”
“This staff and my manager are so supportive. They made it such a special day. We went out to eat, I got gifts, we celebrated in the branch,” she said.
As Hulett moves forward, she remains grounded and focused on the present.
“I’m just going to take it a year at a time moving forward,” she said.
With a 20-acre farm and six grandchildren, Hulett’s life is rich with family and activities. Her legacy in banking is marked by a commitment to service and a deep connection to her community.
“Life is good,” Hulett said, encapsulating the contentment and fulfillment that have defined her journey.
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Reporting intern Christopher Urquia is a student at Peninsula College. He can be reached by email at christopher.urquia@peninsuladailynews.com.
