Donald Hutton, devoted family man
Donald “Don” Hutton, 89, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
Born July 30, 1936, in Wilmington, Don was the son of the late Ernest and Ida Hutton. He attended Christ Our King School before continuing his education at Salesianum School, affectionately known as “Sallies”, where he formed lifelong friendships and a deep, enduring love for the school. At Salesianum, Don was an exceptional athlete, earning all-state honors in basketball in 1954 and serving as co-captain of both the varsity basketball and baseball teams.
He went on to attend University of Delaware, where his leadership and talent continued to shine as captain of the basketball team during the 1958–59 season. Don’s passion for the game remained a constant throughout his life. In 2009, he was inducted into the inaugural class of the Delaware Legends Basketball Hall of Fame, a fitting recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport. He also gave back to the game as a high school basketball official for 10 years as a member of IAABO Board 11.
Don proudly served in the Delaware National Guard before beginning a long and successful professional career. He dedicated 44 years to the Budd Company, Polychem Division, where he rose to the position of vice president of Sales.
Above all, Don was a devoted family man. He shared 64 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Anne Bettinger Hutton. Together, they built a life centered on love, laughter, and family. They raised their family in West Chester, Pa., where they lived for 30 years before retiring to Rehoboth Beach.
Don is survived by his loving wife, Anne; his sons, Michael (Kerry) and Bobby (Mary Beth); and his daughter, Alison Cruice (Shawn). He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Emily, Molly, Kaitlin, Jack and Patrick, who brought him immense joy. In addition to his parents, Don was predeceased by his brothers, Bobby Hutton (infant) and Willard Hutton.
A Mass will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, March 26, at St. Elizabeth’s Church in Chester Springs, Pa., with visitation from 10 to 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made in Don’s honor to Salesianum School, 1801 N. Broom St., Wilmington, DE 19802, sals1903.org/Hutton.
Don will be deeply missed by all who knew him and loved him. His legacy of dedication – to his family, his faith, his school, and his passions – will be remembered always.
