Vernon D. Utecht

Vernon D. Utecht, 79, of Irma, passed away on Saturday, August 14, 2021, at Aspirus Hospice House, Wausau. Vernon was born April 3, 1942, in Merrill, son of the late Robert and Ethel (Baneck) Utecht. He married Patricia Roesler on November 2, 1963, in the Town of Corning, Lincoln County. She resides in Irma. Vernon grew up in Merrill and for most of his life was a State of Wisconsin Licensed cheesemaker and held this license for more than forty years. He worked in Appleton and Marathon County, eventually taking a position with Cloverbelt Cheese in Edgar and retired after working for more than thirty years. Vernon enjoyed woodworking, fishing, trips to the casino with his wife and friends. Survivors include his wife, Patricia Utecht of Irma; sons, Steven Utecht of Wausau, Michael Utecht of Shoreview, Minnesota, and Jason (Wendy Wiesman) Utecht of Arden Hills, Minnesota; sister, Sharon Bucknell of Appleton; and brother, Robert Utecht of Merrill. Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Ethel Utecht; infant son, Richard Allen Utecht; and sister, Bonnie Natzke. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements. Sincere thanks and appreciation to all who have reached out in the past months and particularly the Aspirus Hospice House. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com