James "Jim" Hutchinson

Jim Hutchinson, 72, of Great Falls, was called by the Lord on Friday, December 16, 2016 in the comfort of his home, peacefully with his wife of 52 years at his side, holding his hand.A memorial service will be held Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church located in the Columbus Center. Schnider Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.Jim was born fourth of five brothers in Ione, Washington on March 3, 1944. His family moved back to Montana and he attended schools in Lincoln, Red Lodge, and Great Falls. It was in 7th grade at West Junior High that he met the love of his life, Beverly Willits.On December 12, 1964 he and Beverly were married in Great Falls at the First Methodist Church. They then moved to Spokane, Washington for a year while Jim attended Kinman Business College. Their son, Rick was born while they were there. After returning to Montana, Jim worked as a computer programmer before beginning his electrical career. He served his apprenticeship at Goggans & Pennie. About that time, his daughter Robin was born.Jim received his journeyman license and then his masters license. He went on to start and own his own electrical company, Hutchinson Electric. During that time, he mentored many electricians into journeyman and taught many his passion for the electrical trade. We take great pride to see so many of his electrical accomplishments as we drive around Great Falls and even the state of Montana. He spent a great deal of his time with his children and wife as they often worked with the chief and at one point were all involved in the family business. Jim mentored Rick to also become a master electrician with the State of Montana and Robin was often found working at a computer or answering phones alongside her mom in the office. It was also very common for the grandchildren to be at the office in their home and spending quality time with Jim, Bev, Rick and Robin.Jim was always interested in flying and held a private pilots license. He spent time building his own tailwind airplane in his airplane hangar. He spent many hours building both the hangar and plane from the ground up, ultimately designing a plane that he could fly. Building his airplane and flying were a lifes passion that he truly enjoyed.When not working on his airplane, Jim loved spending time with his family. He and his wife enjoyed traveling including a trip to Australia. They spent several winters in Arizona to escape the Montana winters.His grandchildren were also the light of his life and he enjoyed his time with them. He taught Aly to drive his truck and enjoyed spending many summer days with Cody and Courtney outside at his house. He took great pride in attending any sporting events, school concerts, as well as celebrating their lifes achievements with them.He also spent time with his church and was a very devoted Christian. All through life, he and his family attended on a regular basis. He served three terms as an elder and one as a trustee. He was always repairing things at the church and willingly helped wherever he was needed. Due to his deep religious beliefs at the end of his life, it was a very peaceful and easy transition from his earthly life to heaven.Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, and boating. He and his family enjoyed wonderful times together. He was the best husband and father that anyone could have. He was smart and funny. He was always helping others. We will miss him greatly.Jim is survived by his loving wife, Beverly; son Rick (Shantelle) Hutchinson; daughter Robin (Scott) Western; grandchildren Alysha (Paul) Nordwall of Missoula, Cody and Courtney Western, and Desirae Hutchinson; brother Jack (Iris) Hutchinson; sisters-in-law Pat Maki of Beaverton, OR, Theresa and Ann Maki of Great Falls, and Shelly Ziegler of Erie, PA; and many nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his mother and father; brothers Clarence, Charles, and Carl Maki.In lieu of flowers, please consider donations be made to Faith Lutheran Church Building Fund, 1601 2nd Ave N. Suite 300, Great Falls, MT 59401 or Wee Disciples Preschool and Daycare, 1226 1st Ave N., Great Falls, MT 59401.Many thanks to Peace Hospice for their help in giving him a peaceful release in his home!As for me and my house we will serve the Lord.