Richard Frank Utegg

Richard “Twig” Frank Utegg passed away peacefully on October 17, surrounded by his family, following a long illness. He was born on March 5, 1945, in Homesdale, PA, to the late Lois and Ernest Utegg of Waymart, PA.

Richard was a 1964 graduate of Waymart High School and went on to attend Johnson Trade School in Scranton. Nicknamed “Twig” since grade school, he was a standout basketball player in Waymart, holding high scores that remained unbroken for decades. He was also an excellent bowler, an avid NASCAR fan, and enjoyed bird watching and listening to his wind chimes.

Deeply devoted to his community, Richard served on the Waymart Volunteer Ambulance Corps, was an original member of the Waymart Sewer Authority, and coached 7th and 8th grade basketball.

Richard married his high school sweetheart, Belva Cook, and the two shared 62 years of marriage and a love of travel. Together, they visited 46 states in an RV, went on multiple cruises, and spent time on many beaches across the country.

Richard worked as a machine operator at Hendrick Manufacturing for 20 years before late working for Grimm Construction. After relocating to Florida in 1986, he worked for Addison Co. in Orlando. A true jack of all trades, he was skilled in carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work and could repair almost anything.

In addition to his wife, Belva, he is survived by his children: daughter Tammy and son James (Josie), all of Apopka, FL; daughter in law Ann Marie Utegg of Vandling, PA; and his grandchildren, Brianne and Christian, whom he helped raise and who were the loves of his life. He is also survived by his brother Carl (Barbara) of South New Berlin, NY; sister-in-law Nancy and brother-in-law Steve Vaverchak of Apopka; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Gary Utegg (Donna); his sister Susan Casteline; his son-in-law Larry Sisler and, most recently, his son Richard Utegg Jr., who passed away in March.

Services will be privately held. Arrangements are by Loomis Funeral Home, Apopka, FL.