Dr. William (Glen) Hutchison (March 1, 1925 to Feb. 2, 2024), loving husband of 33 years to Marian, passed away peacefully at the Guelph General Hospital less than one month shy of his 99th birthday.
Dr. Hutchison was predeceased by his first wife, Dorothy Millen (Toyer) Hutchison; his daughter, Jan Forler (Scott); mother, Ethel; and father, William Hutchison.
Dr. Hutchison is survived by his wife, Marian Doris (Starr) Hutchison; daughters, Sandra Valera (Al), Marlene, Norma Steinberg (Jacob) and Diane Ridge (Ian); stepdaughters Joy Starr (John Dumonceaux) and Donna Starr (Gord Dauncey). He was a loving grandfather to seven granddaughters, Alisha Hassara (Josh), Ilana, Heather, Kayleigh, Devon, Mikaela and Nikita; and his grandson Robbie Forler (Samidah); his three great-granddaughters, Amelia, Anna and Faye; and two great-grandsons, Adam and Seth.
Born in Winnipeg, Man., Dr. Hutchison lived a full and interesting life. On June 16, 1944, he joined the Royal Canadian Navy, where he trained and served as a radio artificer fifth class, maintaining crucial communications equipment during the Second World War. He was stationed in Saint Hyacinthe, Que., while the Royal Mount (a Canadian Navy frigate that was part of an escort group to protect convoys) was refitted to go to Japan. After the war ended, Dr. Hutchison received an honourable discharge on Nov. 1, 1945. He then went back to the University of Manitoba and graduated in 1954, and worked as an optometrist. Once again he returned to university to become an ophthalmologist and graduated in 1963. He then settled in Guelph, Ont.m where he practised for 60 years, retiring in December 2021. He also served on the board for the Guelph General Hospital.
Beyond his practice and professional life, Dr. Hutchison had a variety of interests and many friends. He loved opera and enjoyed a good game of golf with his friends. He was an avid swimmer and skier, often being the one to plan ski trips for family and friends. He was always ready for the next adventure. He also enjoyed gardening and worked tirelessly to make sure his garden was perfect and beautiful. He loved life and lived it to the fullest.
Donations to the Circle of Life, Guelph General Hospital would be appreciated.