William “Bill” Utecht, 97, of Rochester, died Dec. 26.
William Robert Utecht was born on May 28, 1917, in Stillwater. Bill was a World War II army sergeant who was stationed in New Guinea and the Philippines. After his service, he and his wife, Maureen, settled in Falcon Heights and were instrumental in organizing that city. He served as the first mayor of Falcon Heights.
Bill is survived by his children, Linda (Don) Reardon, Eileen (Bruce) Berg, Barbara (Kirby) Bayerle, Thomas and Maureen (Keith) Buss; nine grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife and their infant daughter, Mary Kathleen.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Dec. 29 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, with burial at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
