Obituary of James Paul Hutch

Jim Hutch passed away peacefully on August 23, 2018 surrounded by his loving family.

He leaves behind his wife Jean, daughter Jane (daughters Maya, Kati), son David (Gregg Ambrosi), brother Gordon (Leone), and sister-in-law Amy Hutch. He was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Helen Hutch, his brother Ray, sister Marie, and brother-in-law Bill.

Jim grew up in small-town  southern Saskatchewan and attended five different schools, mostly one and two room. This experience taught him many valuable lessons of resilience, community collaboration and how to get along in the world.

After finishing high school in Dodsland he was accepted in the University of Saskatchewan, College of Engineering, however had to delay attending due to financial reasons. Instead he went to work in Toronto for A.V. Roe Aircraft and Admiral Television.When Jean, a nurse,  married Jim in 1956 they set a goal that Jim should realize his dream of becoming an engineer. Jim graduated from U of S as a civil engineer in 1961. Jean received recognition for her role by receiving her PhT (Putting hubby Through).

Jim had a dynamic and varied career in mining, manufacturing and government, including serving as deputy minister with Saskatchewan Premiers Alan Blakney and Grant Devine. Jim's working mantra “lead, follow or get out of the way” saw him rise to leadership positions throughout his career. He retired as the president and CEO of the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) in 1995. Jim oversaw the emergence of SRC as a major player in advancing and promoting Saskatchewan's technology and resource sectors. 

Post-retirement Jim continued with business partners in many start-ups and acquisitions. Jim was the quintessential positive thinker, whose motto was "problems into opportunities". He generously mentored others with his experienced advice, positive reinforcement and delighted in seeing their successes. 

During his career he received much recognition for his work: Distinguished Graduate and Distinguished Service Award 1987, U of S, College of Engineering, the highest award presented by the Association of Professional Engineers of Saskatchewan; Rotary Club Golden Wheel Award 1991 for excellence in commerce and industry; Lieutenant-Governor Medal of the Institute of Public Administration of Canada 1997, for "distinctive leadership and exceptional achievements which have made a significant contribution in the field of public administration in Saskatchewan"; Inducted to the Canadian Advanced Technology Alliance Alumni 1998 “Recognizing outstanding ability, accomplishments and services in helping build the Canadian advanced technology industry"; and honoured wth a Fellowship in 2009 by Engineers Canada for his "noteworthy service to the engineering profession"

Jim spent his final years doting over his much-loved granddaughters, playing scrabble and teaching the  fine art of tinkering with gadgets.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 30, 2018  at 2:00pm  at Saskatoon Funeral Home (338 Fourth Avenue North)  with a reception to follow at the Edwards Family Centre.

Jim requested that you remember him by giving the gifts of your love and time to your family and friends.