Dr. Jean Marjorie Hutchinson

Dr. Jean Marjorie Hutchinson

Jean Hutchinson Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Apr. 23 to Apr. 30, 2009.
HUTCHINSON , Dr. Jean M. November 1, 1935 - April 21, 2009 Dr. Jean Marjorie Hutchinson, beloved wife of Nicholas Gass of Calgary, passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at the age of 73 years. Born 1935 in Legal, AB, Jean lived in St. Albert until 1944, in Edmonton until 1948 and Forestburg until 1954. In 1952, she was married to William Bish and had her son Stewart. Jean immigrated to California in 1966 before returning in 1968. She worked as a medical receptionist and coroner's assistant. In 1961, she married Roger Zwack in Edmonton and had daughter Janie, while working at B of M in Edmonton. Nick and Jean became a couple in 1981, both were teacher administrators for the Calgary Board of Education. She obtained her PhD from the University of Calgary in 1993. Jean was the VP of Calgary Retired Teachers, Board of Calgary Girls School, Chair of Speakers Committee, Canadian Club of Calgary, University of Calgary Celebration Committee, and MI5 (Michael Ignatieff for PM). The greatest achievement for the little rural girl was her PhD "Made to Measure" (Women Making Leadership Fit). She presented the thesis at a UN conference in 1993 in Israel. Jean's favourite song was "Wild Flowers Don't Care Where They Grow" and her passions were birds and the environment. Her greatest challenge was overcoming bureaucracies. She had no weaknesses except perhaps Liberal politics. Jean was the strongest woman ever. The funniest moment was at a high school reunion where she introduced Bill Bish as her first husband and Nick Gass as her last. Besides her loving husband Nick Gass, Jean is also survived by her son Stewart and daughter Janie; two grandchildren, Chelsea and Emilyn. She is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Edna and Reg Weller; nephews, Mark and Wade; niece Janet; brother and sister-in-law, Bob and Dianne; nieces, Laura and Sherri; brother Charles; nephew Danny and his son Logan. Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY'S Chapel of the Bells (2720 Centre Street North) on Saturday, May 2, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com . In living memory of Dr. Jean Hutchinson, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH. Telephone: 403-276-2296.

View All Photos

Add Photos to Memorial

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Jean Hutchinson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 25, 2021

Joshua Wood posted to the memorial.

February 3, 2018

Janie Zwack posted to the memorial.

April 21, 2012

Someone posted to the memorial.

31 Entries

Joshua Wood

March 25, 2021

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

Janie Zwack

February 3, 2018

You light and love still lives on mom...

Jean and Nick christmas 2009

April 21, 2012

Janie Zwack

November 3, 2011

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!
I miss you...

Janie

March 6, 2011

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.

January 19, 2009

Stuart Bish

May 2, 2010

Jean and NIck - Ski Bunnies!

Stuart Bish

May 2, 2010

Jean always loved being outdoors in the backcountry

Stuart Bish

May 2, 2010

Jean and Nick in Greece

Stuart Bish

May 2, 2010

With grandaughter Chelsea Carter-Bish 1983

Stuart Bish

May 2, 2010

Jean and Nick 1982

Stuart Bish

May 2, 2010

Taken around 1974

Stuart Bish

May 2, 2010

Bachelor's degree portrait

Stuart Bish

May 2, 2010

Wayne Caron

April 30, 2010

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.

Stuart Bish

April 23, 2010

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.

Nick Gass

April 11, 2010

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

Dr. Jean Hutchinson Phd.

April 11, 2010

Lissette Arevalo-Tougas

March 3, 2010

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

Barb, Russell and Joseph

April 30, 2009

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

Barb, Russ and Joseph

April 30, 2009

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.

DOUG MCLEAN

April 29, 2009

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.

Colleen Garnsey ( nee Nagle)

April 27, 2009

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.

April 26, 2009

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

Kieran Leblanc

April 26, 2009

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.

Barry Botsford

April 25, 2009

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.

Dr Karen McDaniel

April 24, 2009

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.

Barb Smith

April 24, 2009

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.

Jennifer Pollock

April 24, 2009

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.

Doug Wold

April 23, 2009

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

Bryndis Whitson

April 23, 2009

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.

Don & Susan Quinn

April 23, 2009

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.

Showing 1 - 31 of 31 results

Make a Donation
in Jean Hutchinson's name

How to support Jean's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Jean Hutchinson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Jean Hutchinson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 25, 2021

Joshua Wood posted to the memorial.

February 3, 2018

Janie Zwack posted to the memorial.

April 21, 2012

Someone posted to the memorial.