Obituary of Ann Virginia Hutchings
Oct.29, 1929 St. Lambert, Quebec - Dec.29, 2024 Perth, Ontario
Ann passed away in her sleep at Lanark Lodge, in the early hours of Dec. 29, 2024. She was the cherished wife of Don Hutchings (predeceased Feb.29,2024) for 72 years, and much-loved mother to Bev Munro and Donna Hutchings. Predeceased by her sister Barb Norton (Larry) and her brother Peter Bourgaize. Treasured Aunt to Dean Norton of Regina and Barry Norton of Consecon, Ontario. Great aunt to her many nephews and nieces. Predeceased by her parents Jean Bourgaize (nee McKay) of Perth, On. and Tom Bourgaize of Cap-Aux-Os,, Que. Fond sister-in-law to Don's brothers and sisters.
Ann spent her first 10 years in St. Lambert, Que. before the family returned to her mother's hometown area of Perth, ON. They lived on a farm bordering Rideau Lake just down from the original McKay farm homestead on Otty Lake, where her mother and grandfather were born. Ann's great-great grandfather, Hugh McKay, came over with his family from Scotland in 1816 to settle in Perth, Ontario on a 100 acre land grant.
She went to business college and was working for the Bank of Canada before marrying Don Hutchings. Their early married life involved the birth of two daughters and moves to Canadian Airforce bases in Edmonton, Trenton, Germany and Ottawa. Once in Ottawa there was a move back to the Rideau Lake for many summers and weekends of fun, adventure and family get-togethers. Ann worked for the Royal Canadian Mint in Ottawa as well as a government office. Once Don retired from the Airforce, they took up life on the lake full time. Ann worked for Jergan's Soap in Perth, and Leigh Instruments in Carleton Place before officially retiring. There were lots of trips to Florida and Arizona in their trailer. Travels to Grenada, Australia, and New Zealand took up some of their retirement time.
Ann kept busy over the years sewing, knitting, embroidering, painting as well as learning to fly. She tried waterskiing, sailing, fishing and making beer. She enjoyed curling, making wine and socializing with the wine club. Gardening was a favourite past time. She was an avid reader and very interested in genealogy, classical music and playing the piano. . Her life was very full, although she enjoyed the quiet times just as much. There were many family gatherings with both the Hutchings' side and the Bourgaize's side. Ann's sister Barb Norton had a cottage next door which led to many happy, adventurous times with the Norton clan.
Her later years showed her resilience. She lived about 10 years at their home in the town of Perth with her husband, well into into her 90's. The last couple of years she moved to Lanark Lodge after a fall at home.The staff appreciated her smile and independent nature. Her husband visited often, hoping to move in with her, but it was not to be. They were both 95 when they passed away; Don in the Perth, Hospital just 10 months earlier.
Ann will be buried in the Spring in the Rideau Ferry Cemetery at a private family ceremony. Donations to Bethel United Church or the Perth & Smiths Falls District Hospital Foundation – Perth Site would be appreciated.
