The Emergency Department at UConn John Dempsey Hospital is mourning the sad loss of their longtime and very recently retired colleague, Richard Hutchings, RN. He passed away Feb. 22 after a long fight with cancer.
Richard was an emergency department nurse at UConn John Dempsey Hospital for 17 years. He joined as nurse in 2006 and was promoted to assistant nurse manager in 2011.
Sadly, he only just retired a few months ago, on Nov. 30. His death is very sad news to all who had the privilege to work side by side with him in the ED.
Rich was special. He spent his life helping others, whether in the ED at UConn Health or with the Canton Fire Department. He was always very caring and giving to others. He was a very strong advocate for his emergency room patients he cared for, and no matter the circumstances he always remained calm.
He was a great colleague, worked well with everyone, and was an excellent nurse who also always supported his fellow health care providers. In addition, Rich was a great teacher and resource to the next generation of nurses in the department.
He leaves a lasting legacy of excellence and public service at UConn Health. Rich will be deeply missed. His ED family is comforted knowing he is now at peace.
His ED team’s hearts go out to his family and friends at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Eileen Scully, RN
Nurse Manger, ED
Leslie Mulhall, RN
Assistant Nurse Manager, ED
Jacklyn Lemieux, RN
Assistant Nurse Manager, ED
Meghan Simpson, RN
Assistant Nurse Manager
For more information, contact: University Relations at cdefrancesco@uchc.edu