March 11, 1957 – March 12, 2021

Gary Alan Hutchinson, 64, Palm City Florida passed away suddenly on March 12, 2021.

Gary was born into a career military family while they were stationed in Waukesha, Wisconsin to William (Billy) Hutchinson and Louise (Weezy) Hutchinson.  Waiting for him at home were his brother, Caroll David and sister Beverly Ann (Leavitt) who spoiled their little brother as they grew up.

After being stationed in Michigan, the family retired to South Florida in 1964.  A proud graduate of South Miami High (Go Cobras), Gary spent his time playing football, watching sports, and ultimately racing motorcycles with his best friend, Michael Robinson.

Gary tried a series of jobs which included printing and selling insurance door to door in the Keys. In the early 1980s, Gary got involved in the tire business, like his brother David.  He was hired to run an independent retail tire store.  This job fit his personality and was the foundation for his life's career. Many years later, one of his employees evaluated Gary as, "Seldom wrong, but never in doubt."

On New Year's Eve 1983-84, Gary met Sue Hiatt, who had just moved down to Florida to become a teacher. Their lives would change forever. They married on Friday the 13 ^th (Dec. 13, 1985) and in November 1986 they welcomed their daughter, Sara Louise into the world.

Just before they married, Gary was hired by the Goodyear Company to work as a service manager in downtown Ft. Lauderdale.  Within a short period of time, he was promoted, and the family moved to Bradenton, Fl.  This was the first of many address changes as he climbed the career ladder working for Goodyear, Kauffman Tire, and Carroll Tire/NTW reaching the level of Regional Vice President.

Gary enjoyed a quality bourbon, a good cigar, and Sundays when he could watch NASCAR and Dolphins football.  He was a recreational gambler, focusing on blackjack and poker.  Gary and Sue loved to travel, and truly appreciated every opportunity to see the world.  They had many adventures with close friends, family, and colleagues, seeing amazing sights including walking on a glacier and flying in a helicopter over Hawaii's lava flow.  Gary was proud of the fact that in December 2020, he visited his 50 ^th state.

Because of his career promotions, they moved frequently (18 different houses in 37 years) living in Florida, Georgia, and Texas.  In 2015, Gary and Sue purchased and a "fixer-upper" house which had almost every amenity Gary always wanted.  He dedicated many hours on its repair and upgrades, always making sure that he was "getting a deal."  They referred to the house as "Hutchinson's Palm City Retreat."

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, brother, and sister. He is survived by his wife, Sue, his daughter, Sara his kitties, Roxy and Ellie, and many loving friends whom he considered family.

A memorial gathering will be held on Tuesday, March 16 from 4 – 6:30 with a memorial service beginning at 6:30 pm. Forest Hills Memorial Park, Palm City Chapel, 2001 SW Murphy Rd. Palm City, FL 34990;  (772-287-8484)

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Habitat for Humanity.