Richard James Hutchinson

Richard “Rick” James Hutchinson, age 76, of Ionia, passed away on February 24, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was born on October 31, 1949 in Mt. Pleasant. He was adopted when he was 11 years old by Harry and Evelyn Hutchinson. He graduated from Lowell High School Class of 1969. On June 28, 1969, he met the love of his life, Judy at the Lowell Skating Rink. Rick soon joined the United States Air Force and that would lead to 20 year career. After retirement, they moved to Ionia and Rick worked for Filter Queen Distributers for 11 years and he later worked for the Michigan Dept. of Corrections. He enjoyed barn sales and being an after buyer for Mari Mar Estate Sales. Rick was an avid runner, competing in several marathons such as the Boston Marathon and Pike’s Peak, as well as several others. He enjoyed woodworking, traveling extensively across Europe with Judy, and he became saved by his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in 1980 while in England. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Vicki Harvey; brothers, Douglas Sindle and Mark Dotson; and in-laws, Stanley and Betty Foote. Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Judy Ann Hutchinson; sisters, Evelyn Adams and Emily (Terry) Strange; daughter, Lora House;  grandson, Trinity Husted; granddaughters, Tondra and Abby Husted; sisters-in-law, Sherry (Rick) Eyer and Nancy (special friend, Marv Marion) Drayton; and several nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews. 

The Funeral Service will be conducted by Pastor Conrad Campbell at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Lehman Funeral Home, 220 Rich Street, Ionia. Interment will follow at Balcom Cemetery. Military graveside honors will be provided by the United States Air Force. The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the family. Arrangements are by Lehman Funeral Homes, Ionia. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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