John (Ian) Suttie Hutchison passed away on August 22nd, 2023 after a brief illness.
Born in 1950 in Motherwell, Scotland to Charlotte (Suttie) and Thomas Hutchison, he was affectionately called Ian by his mother and grandmother, May and sister, Maureen.
With the wanderlust of a young man, John set off for Canada after he completed his Millwright apprenticeship in 1971, settling briefly in Toronto and then Nova Scotia. There he worked for Michelin Tire, before starting his own business, repairing the engines in the naval, brewing and other industries.
In 1979 he braved the winters of the Canadian north, moving to Fort McMurray temporarily to work in the oil sands industry. His temporary stint turned into 30 years. John was a highly regarded member of the Syncrude team. He especially enjoyed the comradery of his colleagues, who called him “Hutch”. He loved to teach and mentor young co-workers and in his later years, enjoyed being head chef for “cook ups” with the night shift. John was also known for his unflappable and reassuring approach to crises, which usually began over a cup of tea.
John was delighted to become a father in 1981, with the arrival of his treasured daughter, Janice.
Upon retiring from Syncrude in 2009, John moved to Edmonton to join his much loved, long-time partner Karin Buss, before both moved to Victoria, B.C. Never ones to rush into a decision, John and Karin married in 2011 after 25 years of courtship, eloping to Rome for the ceremony, a move consistent with their shared love of travel. In their over thirty years together, Karin and John travelled in 39 countries, finding fun and adventure in unusual places.
John took things in stride, was quick with a joke and a laugh, and could see the amusing side of almost every situation. He was very kind and considerate, with an innate sensitivity to the feelings of other people. He was liked and respected by everyone who came to know him. He will be profoundly missed.
John is survived by his wife, Karin, his daughter, Janis Hutchison, his sister Mary (Maureen) Murray, his nephews Ian, David and Stuart Murray, and many good friends.
To view the service, please click the video below:
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Melanie Murrin
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Audrey Maguire Dear John, you were the best friend of my love and best friend Noel. You were there in the very beginning of our relationship and your support and friendship and humour really made it possible for our relationship to flourish. You were a gentleman, a bright light and a constant in our lives. I will always remember you with love and appreciation.
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Susan & David Crisp John was the rarest of individuals, he was a man totally without ego or bias, and without a doubt, the kindest most generous person we have ever met. This is not hyperbola, you all know that because you have all been fortunate enough to spend time in his company, the world is a poorer place without him around.
Unfortunately, we met John and Karin later in life than we would have preferred, but in that short time they became wonderful friends, and our lives have been richer for it. Our hearts go out to Karin and we hope over the coming years we can repay some of the genuine kindness that you and John have shared with us. Whenever we have a Gin and Tonic, or a Dark and Stormy in our hands (which is quite often) we’ll pause for a second, tip our drinks to John, smile, and remember the happy times together.Dave and Sue
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Dave Over the years John and I would on many occasions sit and chat about music and food and “philosophize” about life. I am really going to miss his warm, gentle and humorous nature.
But I also believe that his spirit will live on in my heart as it will with all of us who knew him.
Requiesce in pace Mate.
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Heather Rumble John sounds like a wonderful person and we would have loved to have known him better. He was a great lawn bowler. Karin our thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Heather and John Rumble
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Yolande Dear John.
I will forever be grateful to know you.
It is evident that John was a caring and compassionate person and will always remember that he taught me how to parallel park. It wasn’t easy teaching me that skill because of my language barrier but we made it.Rest in peace!
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Sineidin Corrins, Michael Kaney, and family We met Ian in Lake Orta, Italy, where he had travelled from Canada to be at his nephew Stuart’s wedding to my sister Siobhan. It was lovely to briefly get to know him and Karin, who made such an effort to get to know all of the Corrins’s, they were warm, funny and interesting, and it was a trip to remember for everyone. And little did we know that we were actually part of their hen and stag parties! – when they left Orta for Rome and got married! Happy memories. Condolences Karin, Maureen, and to all the family.
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Catherine and Randy Panter We are so sorry to hear about John. We had the pleasure of getting to know him a little through our mutual interest in refugees. He was always patient, good humoured and willing to help no matter what the challenge. In fact, he likely saw the challenges as opportunities. We also had the pleasure of getting to know John and Karin as an interesting and fun couple who so clearly enjoyed each others company and were willing to share that joy with friends. Karin, we are thinking about you and the rest of your family.
Our condolences. Catherine and Randy
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brian daly Brian Daly
Hutch and I, friends since January 1966. Wonderful memories, always kept in touch throughout the years. Managed a few visits together, always an occasion and a few bevvies as well.
Dependable, reliable, generous, honest . All a friend should be .
To all who knew him , weren’t we fortunate to have Hutch in our lives.
Karin, Janis, and Maureen so sorry for your loss.
Rest in peace, Ma Pal.
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Julie, Brent, Elizabeth, Miles, Sylvie Our greatest sympathy to Karin and John’s family and friends
from Elizabeth, Julie, Brent, Miles and SylvieWe five had the privilege of spending happy times with the thoughtful and friendly John.
Rest in Peace, Dear John
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Stephen Smith So sorry to hear about John’s passing. I was a shift Millwright like John and we worked together lots. He was a very generous and caring person. Sending thoughts and prayers to the family
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Maureen Murray (Hutchison) Ian was my young brother and only sibling He left his native Scotland with friends in 1971 to seek employment in Canada. It turned out to be the adventure of a lifetime. When I found out he was ill I quickly left Scotland to be with him. I was fortunate enough to spend ten precious days with him and daughter Janice. I met workmates Noel, Lindsay and wife Carla. In 1986 he met the love of his life Karin whom he loved with all his heart. All his many qualities have already been mentioned. Special thanks to sisters Susan and Doris for their company, transportation to Hospital and Hotels. Also preparing lovely meals for us all. Ian you are at peace now. God Bless from your loving sister and family. ♥️
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Ilyas Baayay Dear Karin & all the relatives
I am deeply saddened to extend my heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. It is with a heavy heart that I learned about John’s passing.
John was not only a cherished person but also a remarkable one who touched the lives of many with his kindness, humor, and unwavering support. His absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, and his memory will forever be a source of inspiration.
During the short time I met John, it was evident that his love for his family, especially his beloved wife Karin, was boundless. The love and companionship you both shared in Morocco were truly heartwarming, and it served as a testament to the strength of your bond.
I want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you, Karin, and your entire family as you navigate through this profound loss. While there are no words that can ease the pain of losing someone as special as John, please find solace in the cherished memories you shared together.
If there is anything I can do to support you during this challenging period, please do not hesitate to reach out. Whether it’s offering a listening ear or assisting with any practical matters, I am here for you as a friend.
Once again, I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies. John will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul find eternal peace, and may you find strength and comfort in the love and support of those around you.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Ilyas Baayay
Manager of
Uncovered Trails
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Barb Louise Maheu No one epitomized generosity, caring and good humour more than John. I have had delightful occasions sharing jigsaws, good wines and friendship with he and Karin. The world will miss his gentle, smiling presence.
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Elizabeth Five years ago, John and Karin answered an urgent request on the CBC for refugee sponsors. During the sponsorship John was always available, from moving furniture for the family in his red pick up, rushing to their townhouse late one evening to fix a washing machine that was flooding the basement, picking up Christmas hampers and taking the kids to the truck parade and IMAX. His practical skills were invaluable and many acts of kindness and generosity so appreciated.
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Adele I feel fortunate to have spent time with John and Karin as a newcomer to Victoria. I was touched by John’s kindness and gentleness, and didn’t mind getting trounced by him at cards while sipping his stellar G&Ts. A sweet, kind soul who made the world a better place through his friendship and caring. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. My deepest condolences to Karin, his family and friends.
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Kate Rest in peace John. Time with you and Karin was the happiest in my life. Such an honor to have your fondness of a daughter. Smile and light in your eyes has been in my heart for ever.My deepest condolence to karin and his family. Hug to karin.
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Lina I was very lucky to live with John and Karin for nine months from November 2006 to July 2007. John was so kind to me that I took him as my “mom”. John was patient to all my questions, tolerant with my ignorance, and worried sick every time I traveled outside Edmonton. There was never a problem too difficult to him to find a solution. I had great experience living in Edmonton and John is one big part of the greatness. I feel regretful that I didn’t spend more time with him when I got the chance. Now I am grateful that I got the chance to know him, chatting, cooking together, sharing music…. John will be remembered and much missed.
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Kate Such a kind, generous soul, John was ever cheerful and looking for ways to be helpful. My deepest condolences to Karin, his family, and friends. He will be missed.
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Dahlia Beck What a rich biography, of which I knew very little. But I did experience (through a sponsorship group) the perseverance, always lending a shoulder, and the ‘laughter cum twinkle’ in the eye.
May John’s memory be for blessing.
Warm hug to you, Karin.
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Jennie I met John & Karin through refugee sponsorship – proof in itself that John was full of kindness and empathy for others. He was always so welcoming and genuinely kind. His loss will be felt deeply by the many people who were blessed to have met him.
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Shemerry Dear John, Rest in Peace. Luckily having enjoyed your family brotherly care in your cozy house, your sweet smile and kind words will never be faded.
Karin, Janis, Maureen,,,, John wishes us to be strong and cheer up.
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neil Mckinlay Rest in peace my great friend Hutch………..I have a lot of great memories of our adventures …I’m so sorry for your loss…….Karin, Janis and Maureen,,,,,,,
My sincere condolences to Ian’s family. I remember him well from spending so much time at his place in Fort McMurray with Janice during high school. I even remember the first time he let me drive his car! It was the DAY I got my drivers license. Thanks for all the great laughs! You will be fondly remembered.