Megan Keola'i Gutcher

She was born on September 17, 1979, to Karen and Gary Gutcher, a daughter whose life, though not long enough, was filled with surprises. From the very beginning, she carried a spirit that could brighten the darkest rooms—a warmth that wrapped itself around everyone fortunate enough to know her. She was named in honor of her Irish and Hawaiian grandmothers. The name Keola’i means either “one who brings joy and happiness” or “one who commands natural forces.” She could create sunshine or storms in our lives.

She grew into a vibrant, fiercely independent woman who lived life fully and on her own terms. She attended James Madison University and the University of Hawaii, and graduated from Bon Secours School of Nursing. She spent a major part of her career years as a Surgical Intensive Care Nurse

Megan was more than her nursing accomplishments, though she pursued them with determination and a whole-patient/family focus. Megan was known for her love of puzzles and games of kinds, personal development, and boxer puppies. She was a dreamer; a soul who found beauty in small moments—a laugh shared, a sunset watched, a hand held.

To her family, she was everything: a cherished daughter, a beloved sister, and a friend. She could be a hilarious presence as well as a thorn in your side. Her voice, her smile, and her gentle way of caring for her pets will remain woven into the hearts of those she leaves behind.

She is survived by her mother, Karen Gutcher, and her sister, Jordan Bastien, who will carry her memory forward in every step, every breath, every quiet moment. She was preceded in death by her father, Dr. Gary Gutcher, who passed away recently.

Though her time here was far too brief, our love does not end — it lives on, enduring and unbroken.

In place of flowers, the family asks that you send donations to Safe Harbor Women's Shelter, PO Box 17996, Richmond, VA 23226 or The Parkinson’s Foundation. https://www.parkinson.org/

In our hearts, she remains forever loved, forever missed, forever ours.