The present invention finds application in hydraulically actuated valves, such as gas exchange valves, having a valve member that moves within a valve body between an open position and a closed position. In valves such as these, the valve member typically includes a valve surface that contacts a valve seat included on the valve body when moving to its closed position. However, the impact velocity when the valve surface contacts the valve seat can be quite high. This can lead to fatigue of the valve stem and can wear out the valve seat, both of which can shorten the effective life of the valve. Therefore, the present invention includes a hydraulic pulse generator for slowing movement of the valve member which includes the direction of a hydraulic pulse toward the valve member as the valve member moves from its open position to its closed position.