John Gutcheck

After fighting a brief illness, John F. Gutcheck passed away at home, Monday November 18th. His dedication to the City of Dillon lasted over 34 years. His 30 year career with the Dillon Police Dept. began March 5th 1980 as a patrol officer, hired by the late Ray Lynch.  There was one stipulation upon his hiring, he would shave and get a haircut.   John worked diligently at his career, learning anything that would help insure the safety and protection of the citizens of Dillon and Beaverhead County.  The DARE program and finger printing the young children of the community was a special time in his life.  Upon his retirement on Oct 31, 2009 as Police Chief, John was sworn in as the Dillon City Judge.    He loved the challenges and was tested by learning a different side of the law. John was born in Anaconda on October 10, 1952 to Robert and Joyce Gutcheck.   He spent most of his childhood playing behind the Anaconda Foundry below the  C  Hill. He loved to construct forts and play in the dirt with his trucks.  He continued to play in the dirt with his grandson this last summer.   All of his life he loved fishing, hunting, hiking and enjoying all that Montana could provide.  He learned to tie flies from his father as well as  Wire  a house.  He enjoyed spending hours in the reloading room creating the perfect round for his son s rifles and passing on his knowledge of reloading.   John is survived by his wife of 37 years, Paulette, his son Nicholas and grandson Johnathan, his mother Joyce and brother Glenn, sisters Marilyn (Dennis) Dick, Chris (Steve) Arveschoug, sister in law Marla (Larris) Allick and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father, Robert and in laws Marv and Betty Eccleston. John s compassion and devotion to his family, his community and his careers were much admired.  His last words were  Do not be sad, I am with family and friends.  I have to walk over the mountain to see what is on the other side.  Remember   walk with God and never lose hope.  I will be waiting and watching. The family asks you to join in celebration of John s life at 11:00 on November 22nd with a visitation the night before from 5 - 8 PM at the Brundage Funeral Home.  The location of the reception has been changed to the Armory in Dillon.  Donations are requested to the Beaverhead County Animal Shelter.