Suzanne Chapman Hutchins, 77, of Vero Beach, passed away peacefully in her home in Nortfield, Ill., on Oct. 5, 2015.
Hutchins was married to her husband John for 54 years. Together they had three children, John (Margaret), Lila (Lou) Bahin and Christopher (Angie), and six grandchildren.
She was born in Chicago, Ill., on Jan. 13, 1938 to Theron and Patty Chapman. She grew up in Kenilworth, Ill., with her brother Tag where she attended Joseph Sears and New Trier High School.
After graduating from Briarcliff College, Hutchins worked as an elementary teacher in Chicago and later in Ohio and New York. She continued her dedication to children’s causes as a 50-year member of the Women’s Board of the Children’s Memorial Hospital, volunteer manager of the Hospital’s Gift Shop and special program contributor at Vero Beach public elementary schools.
She also volunteered her time as a board member of the Northfield Park District and Northfielder’s Garden Club.
Hutchins’ lifelong passions were gardening, golf and her grandkids.
A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held on Monday, Oct.12, at 3 p.m. at Kenilworth Union Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Child Life Program. Info: (847) 675-1990 or www.donnellanfuneral.com.