Paul C. Utesch

Rochester, MN Paul Utesch, 84, was called home to Christ on Sunday, January 11, 2015 following a brief stay at Saint Marys Hospital. He was surrounded by loved ones as he left. Paul was born to Paul E. W. Utesch, and Cora (Schwark) on a farm near Le Roy, MN on September 17, 1930. Paul's father died when he was only 18 months old, and his mother remarried Martin Hetletved, the man who raised him. Paul married Mary Ann Utesch (Nelson) on May 23, 1954 at Pleasant Valley Lutheran Church in Racine, MN. Recently celebrating their 60th anniversary together, they shared a beautiful and faithful marriage that included three sons: Alan, Greg, and Gary. Paul served in the United States Army from February 1955 until February 1957 and was stationed inGermany. Because of his deployment, he did not meet his oldest son, Alan, until he was thirteen months old. After his military career, Paul studied accounting at La Salle University via correspondence. He started his accounting career with 7-Up Bottling in Rochester and worked there from 1958 1965. He then continued a long and dedicated career as an accountant and the Director of Finance for the City of Rochester for 27 years. A member of the National Association of Accountants, he was well-known for his work ethic and perseverance. His son, Greg, followed in his footsteps and also joined the accounting profession. Never having been known to sit still for long, Paul joined his son Garys new business in 1993, Total Restaurant Supply. This retirement job lasted 22 years, and he worked there until the end of his life. Customers, vendors, and staff enjoyed his presence and conversations. Paul and Mary enjoyed spending their free time at their cabin on Lake Vermilion in Cook, MN. Paul was an avid fisherman, and enjoyed tinkering around his cabin and fixing equipment, mowing, and gardening. He especially enjoyed preparing the cabin for week long visits from his sons and their families. Paul was a life-long learner and educated well beyond his transcripts. He wrote regular letters to the editor to the Rochester Post Bulletin and the Cook News-Herald. He practiced daily devotions, was very interested in politics and global events, and was known by many to be a bit of a walking almanac. As technology progressed, he eagerly taught himself how to use email, and at age 80, created his own Facebook profile which he checked frequently. He was an avid viewer of Fox News and always happy to share his opinion. Paul was well-known for his love of Jesus Christ. He was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Rochester since 1957 and was an actively involved member, and cherished his church family, along with his wife. While he will be missed terribly, all who know Paul understand and are comforted that he knew he would be ready to be received into Christs arms when called upon. Paul was preceded in death by his mother, father, and step-father. Paul is survived by his loving wife, Mary of Rochester; his sons, Alan (Susan) of Mantorville, Greg (Linda) of Rochester, and Gary (Traci) of Rochester; six grandchildren, Kelly (Paul) of La Crescent, Adam of Caracas, Venezuela, Melissa Maves (Adam) of Brooklyn Center, Justin (Mindy) of Eagan, Tyler of Rochester, and Zachary of Winona; and a great-grandson, Tanner of La Crescent. He is also survived by honorary great-grandchildren Anna, Sam, and Eve and honorary great-great-granddaughter Gabriella. Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Thursday, January 15that Redeemer Lutheran Church at 869 7th Avenue, SE, Rochester with The Rev. Adam Koglin officiating. A visitation will be held Wednesday evening from 5-7 pm at Ranfranz & Vine Funeral Homes at 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester. Friends may also call at the church one hour before the funeral service on Thursday.Private family interment will be at Oakwood East Cemetery. The family of Paul wishes to extend their sincerest gratitude to Pauls pastors, The Rev. James Heining and The Rev. Adam Koglin, as well as the excellent staff at the Mayo Clinic. Memorials are preferred to Redeemer Lutheran Church, Rochester, MN for the ongoing mission of the Church.