Sam Oliver Hutchinson Jr., of Montesano, passed away Monday, May 27, 2024, at his home with loving family at his side after a battle with brain cancer. He was 76 years old.
Sam was born on March 30, 1948, to Sam Hutchinson and Mardell Smith. Sam was the eldest of three boys and grew up in Montesano spending a lot of time with his maternal grandmother, Lillian, with whom he was very close. Sam was naturally athletic and excelled in high school sports, lettering in football, basketball, and track. One of the greatest joys of his life was the brotherhood and camaraderie on the football team. He graduated from Montesano High School — Class of 1966.
Sam spent his early years camping, hunting, and dirt bike riding with his lifelong best friend, Randy. These were wonderful memories that he would cherish forever. Sam loved spending time outdoors and was especially delighted with his walks in nature.
Sam became a father to Kenneth in 1970 and he relished fatherhood. He and Kenneth spent a lot of time playing basketball and enjoying sporting events together. In the 1980s, Sam’s children, Michelle, Karla, and Patrick were born. Sam was a devoted and exceptionally loving father. He coached soccer and volunteered at many of his children’s school events as a stay-at-home dad.
He had a great acumen for numbers and was able to earn his accounting certification. He used this talent to prepare taxes for many years. In the 2000s, Sam was hired as a corrections officer at Stafford Creek Corrections Center. He made many friendships with coworkers and enjoyed his time there before his retirement.
Following his retirement, Sam stayed busy. Hunting with his son Patrick, assisting his daughter Karla with her garden and farm animals, doing accounting and payroll for his daughter Michelle’s business, and hanging out with his youngest grandchildren, Emmie and Ryan.
Sam was a lifelong learner, and he was very committed to his health. He was passionate about eating a healthy diet and maintaining a good fitness regimen. He took a lot of joy from sharing his knowledge and encouraging others to do the same.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Mardell Hutchinson; and his brother, Donald Hutchinson.
Sam is survived by his sons, Kenneth Hutchinson of Hoquiam and Patrick Hutchinson of Montesano; daughters, Michelle Hutchinson of Aberdeen and Karla Peterson of Satsop; brother, Steve Hutchinson of Aberdeen; and 6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, June 23rd, at 2 p.m. at the VFW Park in Montesano. The family encourages attendance by all who knew Sam. This will not be a stuffy, proper event. Please dress comfortably and bring stories to share. Arrangements are under the care of Harrison Family Mortuary.
