Dr. Jean Marjorie Hutchinson

I’m not sure why Ms. Hutchinson popped into my mind today, but she did.

I decided to look her up and was saddened to learn of her passing. She taught me in Grade 6 in Cambrian Heights. This would have been...1980? ‘81?

Even at my young age I could tell was a little special...different than the other teachers. My juvenile little friends and I called her ‘Hutchy-babe’ because she had this long, gorgeous hair and a certain style.

Being that age, as a rambunctious boy, I would tease the girls to get attention (pulling hair, name-calling) I guess these days it would be classified as ‘bullying’. Ms. Hutchinson with a few stern but kind and wise words showed me that how that was not nice or fair or appropriate etc, and those little lessons really stuck with me.

I went to many schools over the years and had a lot of teachers and their names and faces are long gone but I do remember Ms. Hutchinson and I have brief but fond memories of her.

I just thought maybe her family and friends might appreciate knowing from a stranger that she made an impact... but I’m sure you already knew that...

Joshua

You light and love still lives on mom...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!
I miss you...

I still miss you every day Mom, but you have taught me to be a strong woman and I will live out your teachings and continue to make you proud. Today and always.

Dear Jean, although you left way to soon It was an honor and privilege to have known you in such a short time. Thank-You for your help and support during our Sundance Ceremony in 2009 as I called upon you for help when I was ready to give-up. I know you were with us at the dance and with your help I was able to complete the honor dance that I promised you. I am doing my best to support your beautiful daughter and my soulmate but she misses you tremendously. We miss you and continue to honor your life by remembering your kind and loving spirit.

Well, mom - it's been a year now, but I still have difficulty accepting that you're not just a phone call away anymore. I miss you so much. I miss your wisdom and advice (even though I didn't always take it). I miss your astute insights and perspectives on life. I miss your passion for politics, and was compelled to join a protest against prorogation this past winter. Thought of you the whole time.
It's unfair that you died so young. And fairness is the principle that you always held highest.

How do I Love Thee, let me count the ways. Love her partner in life - Nick

I have been searching for a way to get a hold of my old principal, Dr. Hutchinson, for about 12 years. I am deeply saddened at having come to the knowledge that she is no longer with us.

My deepest condolences to her family. She was a warm and kind soul and I owe her so much. I have been trying to get a hold of her for years to let her know what a difference her life was in my own.

I was in a lot of trouble when I was a student of hers at Harold. W. Riley. She was the only person that I trusted with my fears and with my dreams. I always remember that she believed in me when no one else did. I wanted to let her know that I graduated high school, went to university and worked hard to obtain 3 degrees. I wanted her to know that I became a social worker. I wanted to let her know how much she meant to me and how bright she was during the darkest times in my life.

My thoughts are with you all and I regret never being able to tell her the preceding.

-Sincerely, Lissette Arevalo-Tougas

Jean cared about helping people she knew and enjoyed their company. she will be cherished in our hearts.

Jean was tthoughtful and cared about others. It was a pleasure to know her ovver two elections. She was passionate and showed her concern for others.

Nick: Donni and I extend to you our heartfelt thoughts. We only met Jean the once at our URTP reunion in Kingston a few years ago, but she made a very lasting impression on us.

My sincere condolences to all of Jean's loved ones. "Ms. Hutchinson" was my grade 6 teacher at Cambrian Heights Elementary in 1984. She was an exceptional teacher and really identified with her students. She encouraged us to be active with our lunch hour picnic walks and one of my favorite life lessons she instilled was " if you can't have privacy in the bathroom where can you?!!" Thank you for giving so much of you to all of us... You will be very fondly remembered.

Janie and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Uncle Al and Auntie Debbie

I was sad to hear of Jean's passing. I had the privilege of meeting Jean at many Liberal events, and was always struck by her passion for doing the right thing, her inclusion of so many people in her life, and her kind heart. It is a better world because Jean was in it, for sure. We will miss her, and my condolences and caring thoughts go out to her family and friends.

I am very saddened by news of Jean's passing.
She was my supervising teacher when I was an older student teacher (31 years old) back in 1975 at Kensington Road Elementary. She was smart, sassy and inspirational.
One of her legendary stories: she looked out the window and exclaimed "look at that cool chopper", the kids ran to the window and looked up! Jean was looking at a Harley!
It is ironic that I should get an email about Jean's passing on the very same day I delivered my "letter of retirement" to the Vancouver Board.
Jean's influence has reverberated through my entire career. I have so often thought of her - she was most unique and such an alive and enthusiastic woman.
I agree with Barb Smith.... Jean was a shining star!
I send my sincerest condolences to you Nick, Stewart, and Janie. Jean is still there for you, still loving you...just in a new place.... one of the stars in heaven.

I am so sorry to hear of Jean's passing and my heart goes out to all of her family. I met Jean years ago in graduate school and it was a joy to work with her - her understanding of all things educational was deep and enduring. Recently connecting with her and Nick again was simply wonderful. There is a star in Heaven with Jean's name on it and I shall think of her often. She was an amazing inspiration and role model.

I met Jean with Nick at Liberal events. I didn't know her teaching background but always found her a fun and interesting person to be around. Nick, my thoughts are with you on the loss of your shining star.

Jean was beautiful and gracious with insight and advice that inspired a person to be more thoughtful and courageous. My condolences to Nick and her family.

My sincere condolences to her family, and special sympathies to sister EDNA, whom I know from DAYSLAND,(years ago!!!)

Jean was an amazing person and I am so glad that I was able to have so many discussions with her. The room always seemed better and brighter, if Jean was in it. She will be greatly missed.

We are filled with great sadness to hear of Jean's passing. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Nick and the family. Jean was such a caring and compassionate person.