Russell Hutchins

Russell "Russ" Harris Hutchins Jr., passed peacefully at his home on March 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 4, 1949, to Russell and Helen (Kline) Hutchins in Dayton, Ohio. From a young age, Russ excelled in athletics, developing a passion for sports and a competitive spirit. He pursued his love for football as a collegiate athlete at Wilmington College, where he met his beloved wife, Susan Smith. After graduating, Russ and Susan married in 1971, moved to Mason, Ohio, started their family, and Russ became an integral part of the community he cherished.

Russ began his professional career in education at Mason City Schools, where he taught for seven years while also serving as a football and wrestling coach. He found immense joy in teaching and coaching, supporting and encouraging his students and athletes to succeed in competition and personal development. Russ was a beloved coach and mentor, and those who interacted with him in the classroom or on the field described him as loyal, supportive, and inspiring. In addition to teaching, Russ volunteered as a fireman and served on numerous boards and committees, forging many friendships through his commitment to helping others. After his teaching career, he became a State Farm Insurance agent and operated his agency in Mason for 37 years, becoming a prominent figure in the downtown Mason business community. His dedication to the Mason community was further demonstrated through his service on the Mason City School Board, long-time role as an assistant coach for the Mason High School football team, and unwavering support for the Mason Comets.

Besides his civic and professional achievements, Russ cherished holidays, celebrations, and vacations with his family. He loved his wife, daughters, and granddaughters and devoted immense energy to making all family occasions memorable. With his vibrant personality, Russ excitedly anticipated adventures with friends and loved attending banquets and golf outings with the former athletes he coached. Above all, nothing mattered more to Russ than his beloved family, friends, and the Mason community. He will be remembered for his love and commitment to those he knew, his generous spirit, and the lasting impact he made on the community he served.

Russ is survived by his wife, Susan, their two daughters, Kristin (Eric) Dittmer and Erin Whedon, and his cherished granddaughters, Lucy and Lila Whedon. He is also survived by siblings Nancy Broadstock, Barbara (John) Human, and Fred (Linda) Hutchins, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

A visitation will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025, from 9:30 AM until the service at 11:30 AM at Mueller Funeral Home, 6791 Tylersville Road, Mason, OH 45040. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Crossroads Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Foundation.