Earla Jean Hutchinson

Earla Jean Hutchinson


On Sep. 25, 2018, Earla Jean Hutchinson made her last trip on the Steese Highway. She knew that highway like the back of her hand, having traveled over a million miles on it in the past 50 years she lived in Circle City. Earla's story, however, does not start in Alaska. She was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Her parents were Earl and Marion Larson, her brother, Dean, who lives in Michigan with his wife Janet. Earla went to school in Standish Michigan and attended the Episcopal church with her longtime friend Linda. The year was 1966. "Let's go on a mission in Alaska," the two decided, the sparkle in Earla's eyes was so bright that sunglasses couldn't keep it out.
The adventure started on the Yukon River in the village of Tanana, teaching Sunday school. Their adventure continued to the next village, Circle City. An adventure it was; one boat ride with a young man named Dick and a bible study later, her life would be forever changed. The summer ended and Earla went back to Michigan. Dick was smitten by this adventurous, beautiful, highly spirited woman. The chase began, he wooed her with letters, went to Michigan, met her family and won her heart. Earla returned to Circle the next summer. Earla and Dick were married a few months later and never parted.
Together, they created an amazing life together with their two children, Hutch and Krista. Earla went to the University of Alaska Fairbanks and earned her bachelor's degree in teaching. She became a teacher to many children in and around the village of Circle and Central while helping Dick build an electric and phone company in Circle. Being a selfless teacher, Earla would fly to students' homes in small aircraft to ensure her students' success. Earla served on the Yukon Flats school board. She took pride in this appointment. Her love for kids and cutting through political red tape made her a force to be reckoned with.
The always adventurous, twinkle in her eye Earla, decided to open "the store" in Circle. This store was a meeting place, where gossip was spread, coffee was shared and relationships were made. She loved these relationships, the people of Circle and her nickname "Bulletproof," which was aptly given by an Elder of Circle for her tough-as-nails character.
Earla, you will be greatly missed, but never forgotten by all that knew you, loved you and respected the tough-as-nails Circle lady. Your gregarious and generous spirit will live on through Dick, the love of your life. Your children, Hutch and wife Sandy, Krista and significant other Dave, who adore you, Seth, Helen, Tristyn, Liam, Aksel, Gauge, Signe, Amanda, Dave Jr. and Andrew, who miss their grammy so very much.
A celebration of life will take place at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 7, at Pikes Waterfront Lodge in the Binkley room. Bring a story and a smile.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to Porter Heart and Vascular at 1650 Cowles St, Fairbanks Alaska 99701.
Please visit www.legacy.com/obituaries/newsminer to sign an online guest book.