Douglas Earl Hutchins, 91, of LeRoy, Minn., died Wednesday, February 17, 2021, at their home at Wildwood Grove. Doug was born August 7, 1929, in Litchfield, Minn., to Earl and Bertha (Tuman) Hutchins. He graduated from Litchfield High School where he met his wife of 70 years, Eileen Plocher, in orchestra. His Mortuary Science degree was earned through St. Cloud State University and the University of Minnesota.
He began his career in Morris, Minn., and then moved to LeRoy in 1953 to work with Martz Furniture and Funeral Home. He then purchased the Hutchins Funeral Home and later added Grand Meadow and Spring Valley to his business. Doug served over 50 years and eventually found the right person to carry on in Jim Hindt. The LeRoy Ambulance Service was started by Doug, and he was also a member of the LeRoy Fire Department. Doug participated in serving the community in various ways. He belonged to LeRoy Lutheran Church and served on its council and was a faithful choir member. Doug participated in bowling league, the Rod and Gun Club, and barbershop choirs. His many woodworking projects for family and community continue to be enjoyed. Fishing “Up North” with buddies and times at the family cabin were highlights in his life. He loved the outdoors.
He is survived by his wife Eileen, and his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Nanette – Jesse (Heather), Shannon (Chad), and Casey (Amy); Charleen (Mel) – Matthew (Katie), Sara (Jeremy), Nathan (Charlsie), and Jenna (Neal); Craig (Denise) – Corey (Alycia), Vanessa (Larry), Alison (Encantado), and John; and Grant (Amy) – Colin (Dan).
Doug was preceded in death by his parents, one brothers, three sisters, a son-in-law and great-granddaughter.
The family thanks Wildwood Grove staff and St. Croix Hospice for their help and care.
Funeral services for Doug Hutchins will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 27, 2021, at the LeRoy Lutheran Church in LeRoy, Minn., with the Rev Herman Bakker officiating. Visitation will be Saturday, February 27, 2021, at the church from 12-2 p.m. Burial will take place at LeRoy Lutheran Cemetery. Due to COVID-19, masks must be worn and social distancing will be practiced. For those choosing not to attend services in person a live stream will be broadcast on the Hindt Funeral Home Facebook page.
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