Michael R. Hutchison, age 68, of Mount Vernon, Ohio, passed away on Friday, May 29, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 1, 1958, the son of Orville and Ada (Farie) Hutchison.
To call him “Old School” was a declaration and a badge of honor. He held fast to the truths of God’s Word. He believed in forgiveness, grace, and humility. His life is a testament to all who knew him of how a man of God should walk, not in perfection, but in honest and humble submission to his Savior. A Bible on the steering wheel, no excuses kind of man. A man who cherished his wife with gentle and unwavering covenantal love.
On July 8, 1978, he married the love of his life, Teresa R. Whatman, beginning a 47 year journey of faith, partnership, and steadfast devotion. Together they walked hand in hand, trusting God through every mile, every season, and every chapter of life.
Mike was a 1976 graduate of Mount Vernon High School, where he completed two years of Auto Body Trade at the Joint Vocational School. He excelled in the craft, pounding metal, restoring what was broken, and constantly sharpening his skills through continued training, mastering new techniques. His hands were skilled, his work unmatched, and his reputation above reproach.
Though he loved working on cars, Mike longed to see the country. Knowing he could not afford to travel on his own, he signed up for a truck driving course, a decision that became his lifelong career and calling. For 33 years, Mike and Teresa owned and operated their own trucking company, traveling all 48 continental states, with a little bit of Mexico and Canada along the way. The road became their mission field, their livelihood, and a lifetime of shared adventures.
Mike was the youngest of eight children and blessed with a large and loving family. He is survived by his wife, Teresa R. Hutchison (Whatman); five sisters, Patricia Peterson, Valerie (James) Schmidt, Marilyn Ault, Judith Hutchison, and Bonnie Hutchison; one brother, John “Jack” Hutchison, father-in-law, Raymond Whatman, brother-in-law, Douglas (Shelly) Whatman, and nephews and nieces who each carry memories of his playful humor, his wisdom, and his deep loyalty.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Ada (Farie) Hutchison, his sister, Teresa “Terri” Grams, and his mother-in-law, Catherine Whatman.
Above all, Mike’s life pointed to Christ. He lived simply, loved deeply, and walked faithfully. He chose the narrow path, the one marked by Scripture, prayer, integrity, and quiet strength. His legacy is not measured in miles driven or years worked, but in the countless lives he touched through his humility, his devotion, and his unwavering trust in Jesus.
Like the apostle Paul, Mike could honestly say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” We who are missing him take comfort that he has heard his Savior say, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.”
Memorial contributions in Mike’s name may be made to the Salvation Army.
The family will observe a private service. The Dowds-Snyder Funeral Home of Mount Vernon is honored to serve the family of Michael R. Hutchsion.
Funeral Home: Dowds-Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com