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
23 Responses
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.
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
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!
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.
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
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.
Our greatest sympathy to Karin and John’s family and friends
from Elizabeth, Julie, Brent, Miles and Sylvie
We five had the privilege of spending happy times with the thoughtful and friendly John.
Rest in Peace, Dear John
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
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. ♥️
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