Jerry F. Utecht

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Jerry Fredrick Utecht on January 31, 2025. He was a beloved husband, admired father, dedicated coach, champion athlete, and successful businessman.

Born on a humble farm in Lubbock, Texas, with his sister Helen and brother Marvin (Doc), Jerry's passion for athletics began during his college years at Southern Methodist University, where he excelled as a champion hurdler. His athletic prowess earned him recognition as SMU's overall athlete of the year in 1968. That competitive spirit would remain with him throughout his life, ultimately finding new expression in starting his own insurance business and his dedication to track and field through coaching and timing.

After a brief career as an oil rig diver in New Orleans, Jerry relocated to South Florida, where he began a successful insurance underwriter company. It was then he met his loving wife, Rhonda, and raised their two daughters, Jenna and Kristin, who followed in their father's footsteps and excelled in track. Jerry dedicated those early years to serving as a track coach to his daughters, spending countless hours helping them be successful.

Once Jerrys’ daughters went to college, he began volunteering at track meets across Florida, meticulously managing sophisticated timing equipment with surgical precision. He approached each event as if it were his own Olympics, staying long after the stadium lights dimmed to ensure everything was properly packed away. His love and dedication to the athletes and coaches were boundless. Jerry often said his volunteer work with track and field truly fulfilled him. His dedication to the sport earned him the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Miami Herald All-Broward Athletic Awards in May 2012.

Jerry was also a true lover of the ocean. He enjoyed fishing, scuba diving, biking, boating, and jet skiing. Jerry didn’t let his age hold him back from enjoying the thrill of feeling the wind and saltwater hit his face as he would speed through the waves on his jet ski.

Jerry's legacy lives on through his wife, 2 daughters, 6 grandkids, and the countless young athletes and coaches he influenced over the years.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025 from 1-4 pm with a Sharing of Memories at 2pm at Hodges-Josberger Funeral Home, 577 E. Elkcam Circle, Marco Island, FL 34145.