Today, as we are joined here together to say goodbye to Robert H. Hutcheson, it seems a bit contrite or cliché to say he is gone, but not forgotten. As we reflect on this saying, “gone, but not forgotten”, it takes on a more profound meaning if we define WHY he is not forgotten. As I look around, I see many people that will carry on his life through their lasting memories of him and how he affected their individual lives. But, if you look more closely into the eyes of those who knew and loved him the best – his family – you will see much more. Personally, I can see little pieces of my father in each and every one of my brothers and sisters.

In his oldest daughter, Rita, I can see his courage and ambition – his ability to take charge of his life and define WHO he was, no matter what the hurdles. In Rita, I see his constant desire to do more.

In Tom, I can see his humor – his ability to take a troubling or awkward situation and inject a semblance of levity to make everyone feel more comfortable. In Tom, I see Dad’s unique quality of being the ultimate tough guy on the outside, but softhearted on the inside.

In Susie, I can see his fortitude – his undeniable principle to never give up, no matter what obstacles God has in store for you. In Susie, I see Dad’s quest for perfection and sense of order.

In Patty, I can see his persistence – his ability to stand up for what he believes in and continually abide by that accord. In Patty, I can see how Dad truly cared for people, all people.

In Kevin, I can see his work ethic – his desire to do a job he loves, do it with pride, and do it the best way he can. In Kevin, I see Dad’s generosity – constantly helping others with selflessness and genuine satisfaction.

In Mary, I can see his sensitivity, the softer side of the toughest man I have ever known. In Mary, I see his compassion. Both of these are unique qualities that not all people were lucky enough to have witnessed.

In Donna, I can see his determination and his gift of not backing down from challenges or adversity. To Dad, these were the spices of his life and they made each day more fulfilling.

In Julie, I can see his sense of family and togetherness – his desire for closeness amongst his wife, children, and all those who were the most important to him. In Julie, I see his desire for belonging.

In Joell, I can see his independence – his ability to stand on his own two feet and forge ahead with dignity and pride knowing that in the end, his accomplishments were his own.

And in myself, today, I pray that you can all see his humility – because as I stand here right now struggling to deliver this remembrance, I truly understand the greatness of my father.

I say to all of my brothers and sisters, be proud of who you are because ultimately, our father’s memory will be defined by us.

To all his grandchildren (too numerous to mention), know that you are all of equal importance in this task. Each of you possess qualities of your grandfather – recognize them, hold on to them, and develop them to the best of your ability, because believe me when I say – these qualities will make you a better person.

Finally, I want to express my heartfelt love and gratitude to my mother and thank her for being Dad’s rock - - your strength, Mom, is incomparable. Thank you for being the glue that held all of Dad’s numerous qualities together and helping him be the man we all loved so dearly – your husband, our father, our grandfather, our mentor, our teacher – affectionately known by all as “HUTCH”!

Goodbye Dad, I love you! You may be gone, but as proven here today definitely not forgotten.

September 2, 2006

Dad,

It has been a year since you left us and believe me when I say you are missed. Each of us holds you in a special place in our lives and ask for your guidance on a regular basis. We love you Dad and will never forget how much you gave us.

September 2, 2014

So much has happened since you left us to join the rest of our guardian angels (Bobby, Bobby Jo,etc) The family continues to grow. Amber and Alan added the last little one and there are at least 2 more on their way that I know of. Mom continues to do well and get out as much as possible. Still makes most of the kids games (getting a little tough because there are only so many days in a week) I survived a journey with cancer but then you already know that. You were with me every step of the way. Will always miss you but I know you are always close by. I love you, Dad.

July 15, 2015 "Together Again"

Mom joined you today. What a beautiful day for you both.

September 2, 2015

Hard to believe it has been 10 years. It has been so hard for Mom to go on without you but she did. I know you are both happy to be together again. Thanks for helping me keep my promise to Mom by ensuring she left this world peacefully, surrounded by the love of her wonderful family. I love you both so much.

September 2, 2020

15 years have gone by. You are still missed as if it were yesterday. Love you forever.