Jeffrey Scott Dutcher Sr.

Jeffrey Scott Dutcher Sr, known affectionally as “Dutch”, passed away September 27, 2024, at the age of 63.

Born on February 9, 1961, in Schenectady, New York, Jeff was the second youngest of five brothers, raised in a loving family by James and Virginia Dutcher. His brothers—Jay Armstrong, Joseph Armstrong, James Dutcher Jr., and Jon Dutcher—were a significant part of his life.

Jeff graduated from Mont Pleasant High School in 1979, and shortly thereafter embarked on a journey that would shape his life. He boarded his first plane to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, where he began his distinguished military career as an AMMO troop. Over 28 years of dedicated service in the United States Air Force, Jeff made lifelong friends and cherished memories. He proudly served in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Enduring Freedom, and he always took the time to thank fellow veterans for their service.

From his first marriage, Jeff had two sons, Jeffrey Scott Dutcher Jr. and Jason Michael Dutcher, who blessed him with six grandchildren: Jaylee Dutcher, Deacon Dutcher, Dominic Dutcher, Mila Dutcher, Winslow Dutcher and Kingston Dutcher. In his second marriage, he welcomed a stepdaughter, Katelyn Pursel Quichocho, whom he loved as his own. Jeff took immense pride in his family, frequently sharing stories of their achievements and milestones with friends and loved ones.

A passionate man, Jeff enjoyed hunting, home improvement projects, supporting the New York Yankees, and playing golf. Even as his health declined, he remained engaged in the activities he loved most. Jeff also had a strong faith in the Lord and would often share that with others.

In the months leading up to his passing, Jeff was navigating a difficult transition in his personal life. He embarked on a journey of self-discovery, traveling solo from Syracuse, Utah in his cherished RAM truck filled with tools and golf clubs. He returned to his hometown of Schenectady, New York to reconnect with family and friends, aiming to strengthen bonds and uncover his old self.

During his time in New York, he stayed with his brother Joseph and sister-in-law Dawn. He spent his time reconnecting with family, visiting the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, fishing on the lake and enjoying Dawn’s delicious home-cooked meals. With each passing day, Jeff grew more confident, standing taller as he pursued genuine happiness. In the days leading up to his passing, he traveled from Schenectady to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where he planned to spend the winter with his brother James and sister-in-law Kelly.

Jeff was predeceased by James Dutcher, Virgina Dutcher, Jon Dutcher and Michael Avery Purcel. He is survived by Jeffrey S. Dutcher Jr and family. Jason M. Dutcher and family. Katelyn Pursel and husband.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, please do as Jeff did faithfully though out his life and please donate to a charity you believe in. If you do not have one in mind, please consider donating to charities Jeff was passionate about: Tunnel to Towers, St. Jude, Shriners, Samaritans Puse, Crohn’s Disease research and Spina Bifida Research.

Jeff was known for his comic relief and an infectious laugh. Jeff’s spirit and zest for life will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. If Jeff could say one last thing…I.Y.A.A.Y.A.S!