It is with heavy hearts but peaceful minds that we announce the passing of Ian Fraser Hutchinson on June 28, 2026 after a lengthy battle with prostrate cancer. We take comfort in knowing he is finally free from pain and we hold him close in our hearts as he continues his next journey.

Ian was born on March 19, 1959, to proud parents Bill and Joan Hutchinson of Lacombe. He was the 4th child of five, with him being the only son. Growing up with four sisters was not without challenges :)

After graduating from high school in Lacombe, Ian attended Olds College where he pursued his interest in horticulture. Anyone who has seen his lily gardens would be filled with wonder of the hundreds of colorful varieties!

Ian was a dedicated worker, having spent many years with the department of highways then moving to a career in power engineering.  This led him to a position with the Red Deer Hospital where he stayed until his retirement.  Throughout the years, many special life-long friendships developed.

At an early age Ian developed a deep passion for the outdoors as he accompanied his dad, grandpa and uncles on the fall goose shoots. He also was heavily involved with Scouts under great leadership.  He learned from the best! He became an avid hunter and was truly in his glory tracking through the bush with his son Jesse and his hunting buddies. A major highlight of his hunting experiences was his trip to Africa! He has many beautiful photos of the wild life while on his safaris.

The leadership he developed became the foundation for his volunteer work at the Youth and Volunteer Centre (now Youth HQ) in Red Deer.  His passion and dedication for the youth did not go unrecognized as he received multiple awards for his volunteer efforts.  This is also where his relationship with Jesse began and nurtured into the father son relationship that they have today.  Ian’s family also included his dogs!  He had such a passion for breeding, training and showing his championship dogs. 

Ian will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his son, Jesse: his devoted rottweiler, Roo; his sisters, Peggy (Julio) Rivera and Brenda (Dale) Booth; and their families, as well as a large extended family and an abundance of friends.

He will have quite the welcoming, being greeted by his parents, Bill and Joan, and his sisters, Barb Frith and Jan Kuefler, grandparents, numerous aunts and uncles as well as his many canine friends who preceded him.

A celebration of Ian’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Ian would appreciate donations be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters  lacombe.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca or a charity of choice.

We would like to extend a very special thank you to Dr. Van Niekerk of Family Medical Associates in Lacombe for the compassionate and care he showed Ian over the years.  It helped him through a very difficult time.  THANK YOU!