Schools

Canton Community Mourns Loss of David. A. Hutchins

Family man, custodian, cook, fisherman and friend.

While the late David A. Hutchins had looked forward to the life of a retiree he deeply appreciated what he left behind when retiring from Cherry Brook Primary School. 

Friend and co-worker John MacBain remembers Hutchins' last day as Cherry Brook's head custodian last school year. 

"He stood in the hallway and said goodbye to every student until he couldn't hold the tears back anymore," MacBain said. 

MacBain and so many others were deeply saddened when they learned Hutchins' plans to spend more time fishing the Farmington River, traveling, cooking and spending time with loved ones had been cut tragically short. He passed away at age 63 on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2013. 

Hutchins began working for Canton schools in April of 1995. Two years later he was appointed head custodian at Cherry Brook and retired Jan. 11, 2013. He had also worked in the schools while employed by a catering company, co-workers said.  

MacBain, who is now head custodian at Cherry Brook, worked with Hutchins for more than 8 years. The two became good friends. Hutchins re-ignited MacBain's love of fishing and taught him the fine art of catching trout on with an artificial fly. Hutchins knew all the best spots. 

"The Farmington River won't be the same," MacBain said. 

Hutchins also loved to cook. Every year, he would get up early and bring more than 200 Christmas cookies to the school, MacBain said. 

Cherry Brook principal Andrew Robbin said Hutchins was also a master at the grill. 

Hutchins also loved gardening and the Red Sox.

"He was very passionate about a lot of things," MacBain said. 

Robbin recalled Hutchins' huge array of hummingbird feeders at his home. It was another interest from a man who had many. 

"He was one of the most interesting people I know," Robbin said. 

Robbin also praised Hutchins' work ethic. 

"Dave was a man who took pride in his work," Robbin said. "He loved the kids and loved his family. We'll deeply miss him." 

After retiring, Hutchins returned to the school several times to talk to co-workers. 

BettyRae Richardson said he deeply cared about others and the school. She also fondly remembers the man who was so willing to lend a hand. 

"He was always right there to help," she said. 

Read more about Hutchins life in his obituary or leave an online tribute here. 

Readers are also welcome to share thoughts in the comment section below. 

 

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