Carldon R. Hutchins

Carldon Raymond Hutchins lived a life defined not by grand gestures, but by the steady, unwavering presence he offered to everyone fortunate enough to know him. Born on November 27, 1940, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and passing in that same city on January 15, 2026, Carl’s life formed a full and meaningful circle—rooted in New England, shaped by family, and enriched by community.

A Life Built on Hard Work and Quiet Kindness

Carl spent much of his career at Wilson Farms in Lexington, Massachusetts, where he became known for qualities that never needed announcing—reliability, humility, and a gentle kindness that made people feel at ease. He was the sort of person coworkers trusted without hesitation and customers remembered long after a brief interaction.

A natural conversationalist, Carl was always ready to chat, share a story, offer a bit of history, or drop a fun fact—often delivered with that unmistakable twinkle in his eye. His children liked to joke that no matter where they went, someone would recognize him and strike up a conversation. What felt exasperating in their teen years became, in adulthood, one of the most endearing parts of who he was: a man who made people feel seen.

His work ethic was steady and unpretentious—he simply showed up, did the job well, and treated people with respect.

Carl also found deep camaraderie as a member of the Battlegreen Chapter of DeMolay at the Simon W. Robinson Masonic Lodge, where he stood proudly alongside his brothers Warren and Keith. The fellowship, service, and shared purpose of the Lodge reflected values he carried throughout his life. It was through these Masonic circles that he met his wife of 61 years, Judith Ann Gallini, who was active in the Rainbow Girls and the Order of the Eastern Star—beginning a partnership rooted in shared tradition, community, and devotion.

A Father Who Showed Love Through Action

Carl and Judy made their home in Littleton, MA, the place where they would build their family and root their life in community and love. Carl’s devotion to his children was constant and wholehearted. When his sons, Richard and Michael, played hockey for Littleton, he became a familiar face in the Minuteman Hockey League and in the Littleton Cub and Boy Scouts. He was the dad who helped, supported, encouraged, and never missed a chance to be part of their world. He wasn’t loud about it; he simply showed up, again and again, with quiet pride.

He also loved to bowl, and some of the family’s fondest memories come from his league nights. Richard still jokes that he developed “elite sleep skills” thanks to being able to fall asleep in the bowling alley during competitions and practices—a small but cherished reminder of the many hours they spent together.

In his “semi‑retirement,” Carl and Judy bought a home in Rindge, NH, and he became known as a Yankee Peddler delivering maple syrup, honey, jams, and jellies to local farm stands, Christmas tree farms, and pick‑your‑own apple orchards. He loved the simple pleasure of visiting these small New England businesses, chatting with the owners, and staying connected to the rhythms of the community he cared so deeply about. His conversational nature made every stop a social one.

When his daughter Deirdre discovered synchronized skating, Carl stepped into a new community with the same enthusiasm. From 1978 to 1988, he supported The Colonials synchronized skating teams, becoming a dedicated volunteer and advocate. As Deirdre advanced, he traveled to Milan, Italy, to cheer on The Haydenettes (1988–1992), and later followed Esprit de Corps (1990–2008) with unwavering loyalty.

One of his most cherished memories came in 2002, when he traveled to Lucerne, Switzerland, to watch Esprit de Corps win the Gold Medal—a moment of triumph he celebrated with joy, pride, and a memorable toboggan ride down a mountain, with Judy laughing even after toppling off right behind him. Those who knew him in the skating world remember his steady presence, his genuine warmth, his friendly conversations at every rink, and his uncanny ability to know the results of an event before they were officially posted.

A Grandfather Who Loved Without Limits

Nothing brought Carl more joy than his grandchildren—Patrick Wilson, Katrina Wilson, and Serena Mire. He delighted in their accomplishments, their personalities, and the simple privilege of watching them grow.

He loved fishing and exploring the lake with Patrick, attending every one of Katrina’s dance competitions, and sharing quiet, thoughtful moments with Serena, especially their mutual love of reading. His love for them was quiet but unmistakable, expressed in the way he listened, encouraged, and showed up for them just as he had for his own children. And, true to form, he always had a story to tell or a fun fact to share—grandfatherly wisdom delivered with warmth and humor.

A Man of Ritual, Curiosity, and Simple Joys

Carl was a man who appreciated the small, grounding rituals of daily life. He never missed a day of reading his favorite newspapers—always in print, never digital—relishing the familiar rustle of the pages. He read a book every night, often ending his day with a story in hand. Among his favorite authors was W.E.B. Griffin, whose novels he devoured with the same steady curiosity he brought to everything in life.

He was passionate about his lawn and gardening, taking pride in keeping everything just so. He loved anything sports‑related, especially basketball—a humorous contrast to the serious knee injury he suffered in his own playing days.

He always carried a box of Tic Tacs, a habit that began when he replaced cigarettes with the little mints and never looked back. His hat collection was extensive and impressive, and his hat was always the easiest way to spot him in a crowd.

He enjoyed watching NCIS, and he often had Hallmark Christmas movies on for Judy—a small gesture of love that became part of their shared routine.

Carl also loved to travel with Judy, especially to Bermuda and St. Lucia, where they found warmth, beauty, and time together. They both treasured the opportunity to travel with Deirdre and her team to Milan, Italy; Lucerne, Switzerland; and Rouen, France, sharing in her experiences and adventures.

A Legacy of Love, Loyalty, and Steadfast Presence

Carl was predeceased by his wife, Judy; his youngest brother, Keith Hutchins; and his niece, Kerrie Hutchings. He leaves behind a family who adored him, a community who respected him, and a legacy built not on accolades, but on the quiet, powerful impact of a life lived with integrity.

He will be remembered for his gentle humor, his steady reliability, his love of conversation, his devotion to those he loved, and the countless ways he showed up—day after day, year after year—for his family, his friends, and his community.

His life was a testament to the truth that the most meaningful legacies are often the quietest ones: the ones built through presence, kindness, and love.

He will be remembered for his gentle humor, his steadfast presence, and the countless ways he showed up for the people he loved.

Services will be held at the Cathedral of the Pines at 10 Hale Hill Road, Rindge, NH later in the Spring. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial donations in Carl’s name be made to Cathedral of the Pines, Rindge, NH.