Edward Alan (Santa) Dutcher

Edward Alan "Santa" Dutcher

Edward Alan Dutcher, affectionately known as "Ed" and "Santa" to many who knew and loved him, passed away peacefully and will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born November 16, 1949, in Brockton, Massachusetts, Ed was the son of the late Walter and Elin Dutcher. He entered the world as an identical twin, arriving just six minutes after his beloved brother, Eric Dutcher, who never let him forget it. Ed was one of six siblings and was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Eric Dutcher and Joe Dutcher; and his former wife and dear friend, Linda Dutcher. He is survived by his siblings Judy Olsen, Jan Dutcher, and Jay Dutcher.

Ed grew up in Brockton, Massachusetts, on the same street as boxing legend Rocky Marciano. A proud member of the Brockton High School Class of 1967, he enlisted in the United States Army immediately following graduation at just 17 years old. He served his country honorably for four years, including time in Vietnam. During his military service, Ed discovered the profession that would become his lifelong career and passion: cooking. As a chef, he spent decades bringing people together through food, friendship, and hospitality.

A Brockton native for most of his life, Ed retired and, in 2016, relocated to Englewood, Florida, to his parents' cherished snowbird paradise and a place he considered his own slice of heaven.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Brenda Johnson Dutcher, with whom he shared many happy years before they were married in 2021.

His legacy lives on through his children: daughters Amanda Dutcher, Cristie Dutcher, Heather Dutcher, and son Jason Weiner. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren and great-grandfather to four great-grandchildren. He is also lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives he touched through his kindness, humor, generosity, and unwavering love for family.

Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Ed's life at Abundant Life Worship Center in Englewood, Florida, during the 9:46 a.m. service on Sunday, June 7.

A Massachusetts Celebration of Life will also be held on Saturday, June 13, at 2:00 p.m. at 113 Errol Road, Brockton, Massachusetts, for all who wish to honor and commemorate this wonderful man's life with love, laughter, and fond memories.

Ed's warmth, witty humor, devotion to family, service to his country, and gift for bringing people together will be deeply missed and forever remembered.