Robert B. Utter Sr.

On May 9, 2023, the good Lord showed Bob the path to take where his Mother and Sister each took a hand and welcomed him home.

Born October 14, 1936, to Lenora (Janet) and George B. Utter in a small house on Spring Street, in Oneonta, NY.

He attended school in Laurens, NY and graduated from Otego after his family moved to a farm on Pony Farm Road. After graduating, Bob joined the US Air Force where he served for 4 years as a mechanic. He was stationed in Morocco, Gooseneck Bay, Labrador, and England. Bob was a natural musician, who played the Pedal Steel guitar, and he would play in NCO Clubs.

After the service, he went to work driving truck for his father’s Trucking Business, Utter Trucking, until he decided to become a laborer for the NYS Department of Transportation. Retiring after 31 years of service. Bob worked his way up from laborer to sign crew supervisor in Delhi then transferred to Oneonta and where he moved up to shop foreman. Bob also served as past president of the CSEA. While still living in Delhi, he was also a volunteer member of the Delhi Fire Department.

After retiring from the state, Bob drove buses for Eastern Travels for 3 years. He developed Diabetes and became uncomfortable with the longer trips. Then went to drive for Delaware Opportunities part-time because the trips were shorter and local. He was employed there for 13 years. At age 80, He decided to retire home as his health was declining. He always loved to drive. In his earlier years, Bob had also been a substitute rural mail carrier for a while.

One of Bob’s favorite things to do was watch Nascar races and even had the opportunity to go to the Daytona 500 for a few years with his brother and friend.

He took great pride in his family, home, and property. Never tiring watching his children’s sports or taking his daughter to horse shows. He made friends wherever he went and would always offer a helping hand when needed. Bob was loved by all that knew him.

All through his life, Bob was a musician. Playing the pedal steel guitar in numerous country western bands. In later years, he had his own bands, Pure Country and Country Blend. They would play in various dance halls, fairs, and private parties. He always looked forward to the weekends so he could go to his playing jobs. Bob would call square dances and occasionally play the flat top.

Bob is survived by his wife, Kay of 49 years, his children Robert Jr., Sebring, FL, Micheal (Kathy), White Pine, TN, Nicholas (Erin Bliss), Franklin, and Maureen (Glenn) Schmidt of Franklin. He leaves 6 grandchildren, Aaron, Cassandra Angellotti, Jennifer, Connor, Mia, and Glenn. Also, three great-grandchildren, Twins, Destiny and Tyrell, and Chase. His brothers Ron (Ann) Utter, of Oneonta, Larry (Carol) Utter, S. Carolina, Sisters Doris (Steve) Hadley, Florida, Cheryl (Mike) Lawyer, of Colliersville. His sister-in-law, Christy Harding and brother-in-law, Martin (Trish) Townsend and numerous nieces and nephews He also leaves his beloved dogs Chip, Maisy, Blizzie, and Molly. Along with horses Ghost and Gida.

He was predeceased by his parents, George and Janet Utter, and sister Kathy Smith.

We want to thank Helios and their staff and his caregivers, Penny, Kathy, and Maki for their kindness and care. Also, all the wonderful neighbors that offered help when needed.

At this time, there will be no services. A small get-together will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, we ask that a donation be made to the Heart of The Catskill in Delhi in remembrance of his love of animals.