Michael Hutchison

Michael loved the outdoors and so departed this world on Wednesday, April 4, 2012, a beautiful spring day. It was a day like many that he had enjoyed, experiencing the world around him and what his environment had to offer. Michael was a free spirit. He left here too young at age 44. Michael, who lived in Akron, Ohio, was a giving person, not asking for return from his gift. His caring for others always showed in his generosity or just simple small gestures that would brighten one's days. He was a forgiving person as well. Even with troubles he would face, he would venture to rise above the shortcomings of life and endeavor to make it through the turmoil of the day. Even against his worst foes, he would not express hate but would pray that he or she would get better. Michael was always a gentleman. He had a soothing voice, soft laughter and a bright smile. He had ways of expressing joy, and despite his torments and demons which faced him in life, he persevered. He enjoyed the simple ways of life, being modest in his approach and satisfied with the worldly possessions he had. He enjoyed times with his friends, including Dianna Van Dyne, and chatting with Richard and Sharon Marie, and he enjoyed spending time with his girlfriend, Amy Mullen. He enjoyed camping and fishing, and he enjoyed talking with others, sharing the little things in life and trying to enlighten people's spirits when they were down. He shared his heart with others. Michael loved his best friend, Rhonda Newbauer, who untimely left this earth on Aug. 15, 2009, and Rhonda loved Michael. He and Rhonda experienced the ups and downs together and had hopes and dreams that ended way too soon. He cherished the thought of being together with Rhonda some day but, despite the impatience of this notion, was patient to know that Rhonda awaited him in heaven above. Michael loved animals and spoke of compassion to them. He spoke of raising llamas or dogs and of providing a safe haven for rescued animals. He loved children and demonstrated his concern and compassion for them, especially for those who were abused. He once said, "I want to go around to schools and let kids know if they are ever hurt like that, they don't have to hold it in. It will destroy your mind." He spoke of his desire to help children services agencies. Michael's family cared for him and loved him. His mother, Mary, was always caring and there for him, concerned about her son and wishing for his well-being and health. She sought his protection and attended to those who wronged him, and she did not give up. His sister, Mary, has said how Michael was her inspiration growing up. His brother, Mark, speaks to Michael of his thoughts: "Brother Michael, you were the poorest rich man in all of the city of Akron. Your kindness and generosity were without any self-serving gratification. You unselfishly gave to a friend or stranger without prejudice or reservation. Material possessions had no value to you; friendship from new and old acquaintances alike was of more value to you than any large bank account. You have taught me to have more compassion, more tolerance and more love for those in our society who are perceived to be inferior. For anyone passing judgment upon the bum sitting in the park or sleeping on the sidewalk, we need to remember that they are human. They have a story to tell. Some even have massive financial wealth, but most of all, they are probably someone's brother. My only regret is that I did not understand how to express unconditional love to you while you were here on this earth. I am truly sorry. Please know I love you so very much, Michael. Your brother, Mark." Michael touched many lives, and he leaves his family and friends who will remember him. He leaves his mother, Mary J. Barnes (Dr. Patrick C. Barnes) of Hollidaysburg; his father, Michael S. Hutchison Sr. of Cadiz, Ohio; two brothers: Mark A. of Medina, Ohio, and Samuel C. (Abbey) of Strasburg, Ohio; nephews: Caden and Cole, James R. Hutchison of Akron, Ohio, and James and Austin; his sister, Mary Margaret Burnsed (Dr. John Burnsed) of Bentonville, Ark.; and nephew, Preston, and nieces, Morgan and Regan. He also leaves his attorneys: Attorney Richard M. Serbin of Altoona, Attorney Richard P. Kutuchief of Akron, Ohio, and his secretary, Sharon Marie Fife, Attorney Ellen C. Kaforey and Attorney Kerry M. O'Brien. Michael, we will miss you. May God grant you the peace you have sought in your days on this earth, and may you rest in peace. "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want." Friends will be received from 5 until the 7 p.m. funeral service Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at Mauk & Yates Funeral Home Inc., Juniata (www.maukandyates.com). Interment will be at Alto-Reste Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael's memory may be made to the Central Pennsylvania Humane Society, 1837 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd., Altoona, PA 16602.