James "Hutch" Hutchison

James Hutchison, known to many simply as Hutch, passed away peacefully at home in Clifton, New Jersey, on March 28, 2026, at the age of 84.

He was born on July 15, 1941, in Passaic, New Jersey, and spent his life rooted in the values of hard work, faith, and devotion to family and community. James was a proud Christian whose life reflected kindness, humility, and a steady commitment to those he loved. He was a man who could always be counted on, and those who knew him will remember him as loving, handy, and creative, with a warm presence and a generous spirit.

James attended Passaic High School and carried the lessons of his upbringing into every part of his life. He served the community first as a Passaic Police Officer for three years and then as a Passaic Firefighter for 32 years. His years in public service were marked by courage, loyalty, and dedication. He answered the call to protect others with quiet strength and a deep sense of responsibility. His fellow officers, firefighters, neighbors, and friends knew him as a dependable man who took pride in doing his duty well and without complaint.

Outside of his work, James found joy in the simple and meaningful things of life. He loved cars and especially enjoyed working on them; if he couldn’t find a part that he needed he made it. He had five classic cars, and he took great pleasure in caring for them and appreciating the craftsmanship and history they represented. Because of this he became well known at local car shows regularly attending Tuesday Nights at Rutt’s Hut. He also loved fishing and spending time at the beach, where he could relax and enjoy God’s creation. These interests brought him peace and happiness, and they reflected his patient, thoughtful nature. He was the kind of man who could fix what was broken, enjoy the beauty around him, and share his enthusiasm with others. He was an animal lover who once saved a baby bird, a snapping turtle, and a hawk. He enjoyed going with the family to his sister Betty’s home in the Adirondacks where we all rode her horses together. He loved his dogs, Rusty and Erin and especially the treasured family cat, Dasher.

James is survived by his beloved wife, Joan S. (nee Tomanek) Hutchison. He is also survived by his two daughters, Jill Hutchison, and Crystal Wysocki and her husband Michael. He leaves behind his sister, Mary Gill, and his grandson, Tyler James Wysocki, who brought him great joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary (nee Montague) Hutchison, and by his brothers Robert Hutchison, Patrick Hutchison, and William Hutchison, as well as his sisters Elizabeth Roche and Ann Hutchison.

James was blessed with a family who loved him deeply, and he returned that love in full measure. He was tough as nails but always found moments to laugh. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend always taking care of those around him. His life was a testament to faithfulness and perseverance, and he leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, and love. The example he set will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Bizub-Quinlan Funeral Home, 1313 Van Houten Ave., Clifton. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 10:30 am from the funeral home. Entombment to follow at Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum, Paterson. Please visit www.bizubquinlan.com to leave condolences to the family on the Tribute Wall section of the online obituary.