Robert Arliss “Bobby” Utterback, 82, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025. He was born on March 3, 1943, in Fairfield, Illinois, to Robert and Anna Marie Utterback. Bobby fondly remembered his childhood days in Pond Creek and the “Bottoms,” where he spent many carefree hours running through the fields with his beloved dogs, siblings, and cousins.
Bobby’s work ethic developed early. He began his career as a paperboy for the local press, followed by mowing lawns and later working at the Fairfield Roller Rink. From a young age, he was determined to find ways to support his family, showing a strong sense of responsibility and dedication.
An avid outdoorsman, Bobby was passionate about hunting and fishing, and he especially cherished the fishing trips he took with his siblings in Alaska, where they created lifelong memories.
Bobby’s love story with Deanna “Sissy” Garman began when they were in grade 8 at Center Street School. Despite their youthful breakups and reunions, their connection was undeniable. Over the years, they shared countless moments of joy, teasing each other lovingly and recalling the times when Bobby wouldn’t let any other boys talk to her. They enjoyed many country drives to Golden Gate and the Bottoms, as well as countless spins around the roller rink, building the foundation for a lifelong love story.
After graduating from Fairfield High School in 1961, Bobby enlisted in the Air Force that summer. In 1962, he and Sissy married, and their journey together took them to numerous places, including Nebraska, Florida, Illinois, and Alaska. Along the way, they were blessed with three children: Robin (1963), Rhonda (1965), and Robert “Bobby D” (1971).
Bobby’s love for Sissy was unwavering. Their bond was one of mutual respect, deep affection, and joy. They held hands through life’s ups and downs, kissed and hugged daily, and were forever devoted to each other.
Bobby proudly served 20 years in the United States Air Force, retiring with the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. His service was marked by numerous accolades, including the Vietnam Service Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal. After retiring from the Air Force, Bobby applied his extensive knowledge of aircraft and hydraulics to a successful civilian career. He became Vice President of Ketchikan Air Service before joining Alyeska Pipeline, where he worked diligently maintaining the pump stations along the critical Alaska Pipeline.
In 2005, Bobby and Sissy retired to Tucson, Arizona, where they embraced an active retirement. They enjoyed frequent rounds of golf, adventurous road trips across the country, and hosting lively dinner parties. They also enjoyed organizing regular card game nights with family and friends, playing Canasta, Hand and Foot, and Jokers and Pegs.
In 2022, Bobby and Sissy celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in Hawaii, surrounded by their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They had just celebrated Bobby’s 80th birthday in Hawaii when Sissy passed away in 2023. Bobby often spoke of her with love and longing, saying, “You wait for me, Sissy. I’m coming home to you.”
Bobby leaves behind his children: Robin Curtis, Rhonda (Jennifer) Prowell-Kitter, and Bob (Johanna) Utterback; grandchildren: Mitchell (Shalem) Kitter, Megan Kitter, Sophia Utterback, and Austen Utterback; great-grandchildren: Dayton Prowell-Kitter and Porter Kitter; sisters: Laura Gottemoller, Linda (Roger) Starks, and Donna (Jim) Barberis; sisters-in-law: Donna Savage, Crystal (Kent) Baker; and many nieces and nephews. Bobby was preceded in death by his wife, Sissy; his parents, Robert and Anna Marie Utterback; his brothers, Edwin Dale and Harry William “Bill” Utterback.
Funeral services will be held at 1pm on March 14th, 2025, at Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home, with burial at Maple Hill Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 11am until the time of service. Following the service, all are invited to join the family for a light lunch and refreshments at Holiness Rescue Mission. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association.
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