Mildred Hutchens

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Mildred Hutchens (nee McKinnon), of Toronto, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 13, 2022, at the age of 105. She was comfortable in her residence at Sunrise Retirement with her loving daughter, Linda Richmond, by her side, guiding her to Heaven and into the loving arms of her predeceased husband, George Hutchens (d 1999) and eldest daughter, Mildred Barbara May (d 2014).

Born on December 12, 1916, in Fort William Ontario to parents Douglas and Mildred McKinnon. She was the eldest of seven with close relationships with each of her 3 brothers, Doug, George, and Robert and 3 sisters Veryle, Connie, and Joyce.

She met her husband, George, in September of 1940 when she was working as an assistant cook on a ship on Lake Superior. After a whirlwind romance, starting with their first date on the rollercoaster at Crystal Beach; they wed 3 months later on December 23, 1940, and spent the next 59 years together. Cherishing each other, creating their family, and fostering the importance of taking care of each other and keeping the family close.

They built their home in Toronto, and this became a refuge for all. The doors were always open, and Mildred stood ready to welcome visitors with an offer of one of her many baking delights, a meal, or a cup of tea. She was a legendary seamstress, cook and baker. Occasions involving her homemade tarts, pies and chocolate cakes ensured there was always a full house of visitors on holidays and Sunday dinners and while many attempts have been made to recreate these dishes, we could never quite create it as perfectly as Mildred could.

Mildred is survived by her three remaining children, Patricia Burlington (Barry), Linda Richmond (Martin) and George Hutchens (Debbie). She was a loving Grandmother to Brad May (Colleen), Brent May (Lana), Julie Samide (John), Kirsten Roberts, Sheri Vader (Nigel), Lisa Holmes (Chris), Greg Hutchens (Michelle), Jennifer Pipe (Jeff) and Kristine Hutchens (Kyle). She was also a great Grandmother to 19 and a great-great Grandmother to 2. She was ready with a warm smile, words of encouragement and compassion for every member of her family and all that came across her path. She was an incredible matriarch and left us all with a strong understanding of the importance of family. We each ensure that we continue to pass this foundation on to each new generation as they join our clan. This is her legacy.

Mildred spent the last five years of her life in residence at Sunrise Retirement Living in Aurora and was lovingly cared for by a wonderful staff. Her children and grandchildren were regular visitors with large family dinners at her new home prior to Covid. During the lockdown, the staff ensured Mildred remained safe and cared for. They provided great support to Mildred during her residency and treated her as they would a member of their own family. We knew she was in good hands when Linda, Patricia or George could not be with her. This will always be greatly appreciated by her family.

Services will be held at Ward Funeral Home, located at 2035 Weston Rd, York at 10:30AM. The burial will follow to lay her to rest with her loving husband, George.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada or their favorite charity in Mildred Hutchen’s name.