Merrill J. Hutchinson

MERRILL J. HUTCHINSON

Cedar Rapids

Merrill J. Hutchinson, 98, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, left our earthly company on Dec. 19, 2020, to meet his maker and gain passage into heaven. A private family graveside service at Cedar Memorial will be held at a later date.

Merrill was born on Sept. 20,1922, on a farm near Chariton, Iowa. He was a tank commander in World War II, and fought in many battles including the Battle of the Bulge in Patten's army. After he returned home, he saved enough money to bring his fiancee, Jarmila, from Czechoslovakia the states. They were married in 1947. Merrill worked for Rockwell Collins, retiring in 1987. He was wonderful father, a pilot, a gardener, an antique collector and could fix anything. Merrill left behind a firm belief in God, the communion of saints, and a deep appreciation for his family. It was his belief that one day he will be with all of his loved ones again in a better place.

Merrill joins his wife, Jarmila, who preceded him in death in 1986; a granddaughter who died in 1983; wife, Wilma, who died in 2010; his parents and four brothers and a sister.

He is survived by his son, Jim (Amy) Hutchinson of San Rafael, Calif.; daughter, Pat (Sub) Drahos of Cedar Rapids; grandson, Joe (Taylor) Drahos of Walnut Creek, Calif.; granddaughter, Susie (Peter) Froehle, and great-grandsons, Sylvester and Wylie Froehle of Madison, Wis.

Merrill's family would like to thank the entire staff of the Meth-Wick Woodlands community and especially the staff from the Stewart neighborhood that took loving care of him for several years. They treated dad like family and we will never forget their compassionate care.

Should friends desire, in lieu of flowers, memorials in Merrill's name may be directed to Meth-Wick Foundation (1224 13th St. NW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52405) or a charity of your choice. Please leave a message or tribute to Merrill's family on our web page, www.iowacremation.com under obituaries.