Bob Hutcheson, a Huntsville philanthropist and longtime community service advocate, died on Aug. 16. He was 99 years old.
According to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation (HHF), Hutcheson was a passionate supporter of the local hospital who championed health-care initiatives and emphasized the importance of accessible medical services in Muskoka.
Foundation officials said his commitment to the hospital was shaped by his family’s deep roots in Muskoka and his previous role as a key fundraiser for the existing facility, a responsibility he shared with his father.
“I went to school here, fell in love here, started businesses here, had my family here. To say I love it here, on the lakes, in the forest, in town, is an understatement,” said Hutcheson in a video featured on the HHF website.
Last year, the foundation announced that the new Huntsville Hospital would be named in his honour following a $20-million donation made by local families in his name.
Aside from being a strong advocate for community service, he was also recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest male water skier at the age of 92.
