Thomas William Utecht, age 69, passed away on September 6, 2025, after a

courageous fifteen-month battle with cancer.

Tom is preceded in death by his beloved parents, William and Maureen Utecht,

and his sister, Mary Kathleen. He is survived by his loving sisters: Linda (Don)

Reardon, Eileen (Bruce) Berg, Barbara Bayerle, and Maureen (Keith) Buss. He is

also lovingly remembered by his nine nieces and nephews, who will forever

treasure the joyful, caring uncle who made them laugh and always made them

feel like his favorite.

The only boy in a family of five siblings, Tom often joked that it was a heavy cross

to bear — but he secretly relished the attention (even if it came with a bit of

henpecking). He grew up in Falcon Heights and Rochester, Minnesota,

graduating from Lourdes High School. After high school, Tom hit the road, living

in Arizona and California, where he worked in the hotel industry and made

friends everywhere he went with his quick wit and warm spirit.

Eventually, Tom returned to Minnesota and, for the past fifteen years, found his

true calling working at Highview Hills Assisted Living Center in the Alzheimer’s

Unit. As a lead Resident Assistant, Tom brought laughter, compassion, and joy to

his work every day. His creative, zany way of communicating resonated deeply

with both residents and staff. He was proud to be named Employee of the Year

— a recognition celebrated with a special luncheon he never stopped talking

about. The friendships he made at Highview Hills became a second family,

especially meaningful during his illness, when so many showed up to support

him, especially Tracy.

Tom was hilarious, loyal, charming, and endlessly kind. He was passionate about

his Catholic faith, his family, his work, music, history, and — of course —

gossiping with his sisters. He had a knack for helping others and even gave

fishing a try now and then. His favorite escape was being near Lake Superior,

where he found peace.

Above all, Tom tried to make each person’s day a little brighter, whether through

humor, empathy, or just a well-timed story. His absence will leave a deep void in

the lives of all who knew and loved him.

A Memorial Mass will be held in Tom’s honor at 11:30 AM on Monday, September

29, 2025, at All Saints Catholic Church, 19795 Holyoke Ave, Lakeville, MN

55044. A one-hour visitation will precede the service, beginning at 10:30 AM at

the church. Burial will follow at All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Tom’s name to 360

Communities, 501 E. Highway 13, #112, Burnsville, MN 55337, or online

360communities.org.