David Gerald Hutchinson

In Loving Memory of David Gerald Hutchinson

June 12, 1941– October 14, 2025

David Gerald Hutchinson, 84, of Puyallup, WA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Buffalo, New York, David was the son of Eleanor and Harold Hutchinson. He grew up in the village of Lancaster, loved radio broadcasting, and joined the United States Army in 1962. His mother taught him to "let his light shine" and that he did.

Dave's 30-year military career led him around the world specializing in radio operations and tactical communication. He was recognized for exceptional meritorious service in numerous positions of responsibility, culminating in his rank of Sergeant Major. His unrelenting loyalty, initiative, and perseverance brought wide acclaim, inspiring others to maximize achievement. His three-decade career was characterized by his selfless dedication, keeping with the highest tradition, reflecting credit upon him and the United States of America.

While serving in Vietnam, Dave traveled on R&R to Sydney, Australia, where he met a nurse who captured his heart. He married Gwenda Lorraine Klinberg in Albury, Australia, on May 15, 1971. His sister's wedding was on the same day/time in Buffalo, N.Y., so that both families could celebrate the weddings simultaneously. Over the years, Dave and Gwenda built a family and resided in Colorado, Germany, Hawaii, and Washington state. Together they enjoyed church, gardening, traveling to Hawaii, picking out farm fresh produce, and spending time with family. Dave took immense pride in their home. He meticulously landscaped his yard and insisted on planting 100 roses. Just one month before his passing, with a big smile on his face, he showered his newly wed granddaughter and her spouse with rose petals from his garden.

In retirement, Dave enjoyed volunteering with Gwenda in local communities. At Kindred/Rainier Rehabilitation Center, he brought conversation, crafts, games, and joy to elderly patients. He also hosted tourists and visitors at the Little White Church of Elbe, a tiny Lutheran church, built by German immigrants, located in the beautiful foothills of Mount Rainier since 1906.

Dave was a devoted dad. He loved spending time with his kids pitching a ball in the backyard, playing ladder ball, watching Mariners games, attending parades, enjoying a BBQ or celebrating holidays. He supported a Washington State University Cougar graduate and a University of Washington Huskies graduate; he could never lose an Apple Cup. He was also a dedicated Grandpa. Over the years, he amused his grandkids with his Happy Birthday jingles that he enthusiastically sung. In fall, when his grandkids outgrew trick or treating, he adorned their porch with a plethora of pumpkins of every color, shape and texture – and so it is fitting that his memorial service fall on October 31.

Dave is survived by his spouse Gwenda, his children Leanne (and husband Mark), Paul (and wife Ruby), his grandchildren Adrienne (and husband Kyler) & Brandon, and his brother Harold (Hutch). He was preceded in death by his sister Betty.

Our family will forever appreciate the 6-day care and support of the Madigan medical team, the chaplains, and Madigan's Thank You quilters group. On Dave's final day, the sun shined brightly and the backdrop of Mt. Rainier glistened behind the American Flag at the hospital's entrance.

"Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." Matt. 28:20

Dave is remembered for his big smile, integrity, love of sports, admiration of Pacific Northwest beauty, and unwavering devotion to his faith and family. Dave's legacy of patriotism, cherishing life's simple joys, and embracing the holiday spirit will continue to live on in our hearts.

Dave will be laid to rest at Tahoma National Cemetery.