Walter L. Hutchison

Walter “Papa Walt” L. Hutchison, 87, of Lincoln, Nebraska, passed away on September 4, 2025, at The Landing in Lincoln. He was born on February 26, 1938, in Omaha, to Manford and Lucille Hutchison.

Walter grew up in Louisville, Nebraska, graduating from Louisville High School. He went on to attend the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he earned his master’s degree in music.

Walter worked as a teacher before serving in the U.S. Army. Following military service, he returned to teaching, starting the Gretna Band program. He left teaching to perform with the Hutchison Brothers Band. The Hutchison family owned and operated several restaurants in Lincoln.

On December 8, 1983, Walter married Margie (Burns) Heitman. Walt loved being part of a large, musical family with 6 children. Walt and Margie traveled to and from Council Bluffs on a regular basis and also traveled extensively after retirement. They were soul mates and celebrated their life-long love of music and family. They cherished nearly three decades together before Margie’s passing in 2011. Walt was also preceded in death by his parents, step-son Charles “Charlie” Heitman and son-in-law Bob Viola (Marilyn Heitman).

“Papa Walt” is fondly and lovingly remembered by his kids and grandkids. He was an exceptional person. He is survived by his step-children and their families: Cathy Turner (Craig), Oakland, Iowa; Marilyn Heitman; Rhonda Diller (Jeff); Tom Heitman (Sarah) and Suzy Simmons (DaVal Johnson), all of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Grandchildren include: Gina Gentile, Scott Turner, Laura Hansen, Brian Turner, Joe Viola, Andy Diller, Eric Diller, Mark Diller, Courtney Heitman, Grant Simmons, Ellen Simmons, Paul Heitman and Doug Heitman. Walter also has 21 great-grandchildren. Also mourning his passing is a multitude of friends, including Joyce Madison of Council Bluffs. Walt never met a stranger … he loved to meet and talk with everyone.

Walt is also survived by his brothers, Glenn and Ron and their families of Lincoln, Nebraska.

A private celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025 in Council Bluffs.