Ernest S. Hutchins, fondly known as "Ernie", a resident of Anacortes, passed away suddenly on June 4, 2025, due to complications from COPD. He was born on June 25, 1942, in Lynn, Massachusetts, and spent his early childhood in nearby town of Linfield. Ernie was a High School graduate of Lyndon Institute in Lyndon, Vermont.

On June 29, 1962, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving honorably aboard the U.S.S. McCloy (DE 1038) until his discharge on August 19, 1966.

Following his military service, Ernie attended Bryant and Stratton College. After graduating, he explored opportunities in both the building and ski industries. Being one of his passions, he made sure all of his children would learn and enjoy skiing. In 1976, he began a long and successful career with UPS, where he worked for over 20 years as a Customer Service Manager. A role in which he excelled and pioneered new programs for the company. His work took him to various regions across the country, including New England, Alabama, and New Jersey.

After decades on the East Coast, Ernie and his wife Pattie relocated to Anacortes, Washington in June 1999 to enjoy retirement. There, they embraced a new lifestyle, remodeled a house to be their home, built a cabin in Mazama, and constructed a Nordic Tug, the "Coastal Star". His days were filled with boating, skiing, hiking, travel, and ten years of volunteer service at the Visitors Center. He had exceptional interpersonal skills and loved to meet people. Naturally curious and a great listener, he made people feel like he was genuinely interested in them. He enjoyed finding out things he had in common with others. In time, their children also made their way to the area—son Brad and his family, daughter Becky and her family, and daughter Lesleigh and her family. He enjoyed cooking for all of them and his grandchildren were especially fond of "Papa Ernie's" barbeque ribs. His anecdotes provided many laughs at family gatherings and dinners. His meticulous attention to detail made him a great craftsman and handyman. Whenever his family pressed him with "How did you....?" or "How do I....?" His patent response was "It's a tricky deal."  He sometimes surprised them by responding with "I know a guy." Truth is that he knew a lot of people and was always willing to meet and get to know more. He was a great man. He will be missed.

Ernest will be remembered for his service, his generous nature, his adventurous spirit, and the deep love he had for his family.

To share memories of Ernie, please sign his online guest register and bookmark this direct link to check for updates: www.evanschapel.com/obituary/ernie-hutchins