John L. “Jack” Hutchinson Jr., 81, of Watseka passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026 at Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth. He was born on March 26, 1944 in Washington D.C. the son of John L. and Betty (Brink) Hutchinson. Jack married Sue Strand in Iroquois, IL on January 21, 1967 and she survives. Also surviving are two sons, Jacob (Kristen) Hutchinson of Naperville and John (Marcy) Hutchinson of Watseka; 5 grandchildren, Isaac, Stella, Jack, Ellie, and Alex Hutchinson; three brothers, Rick (Judy) Hutchinson of Poplar Grove, Larry (Karen) Hutchinson of Carol Stream, and Bob (Nadine) Hutchinson of Wheaton; one sister, Leslie (Sandy) Rothe of Lone Tree, CO. Jack was preceded in death by his parents.
A gifted athlete, Jack excelled at Wheaton Community High School in basketball, track, and football. He earned First Team All-Conference honors in basketball in 1961 and 1962, was named a Chicago Sun-Times Area All-Star, received All-State recognition, and became Conference Scoring Champion. In track and field, he was a two-time Conference Champion in the High Jump, placed fifth at the State Meet in 1962, and competed in the broad jump and 880 relay. He also started in football at offensive end and defensive back. In 2024, he was inducted into the Wheaton Community High School Hall of Fame.
Jack attended Bradley University on a full scholarship and was a proud member of the 1964 NIT Championship basketball team.
While athletics shaped his early years, service defined his life. Jack served as President of Iroquois Farmers State Bank from 1980 to 2010 and later as Chairman. He was an active member of the Illinois Bankers Association for more than 25 years, serving on its Board and as President from 2001 to 2002. He also served on the Board of Iroquois Memorial Hospital, including as Chief Financial Officer, and was a dedicated Kiwanis member for 30 years.
Jack will be remembered for his competitive spirit, steady leadership, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Private graveside services will be held at Prairie Dell Cemetery in Iroquois with Pastor John Franklin officiating.
Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospital and Iroquois Memorial Hospice.
Arrangements are by Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.
Please share a memory of Jack at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.
