Douglas E. Utz

Douglas E. Utz, 61, of rural New Washington, passed peacefully at home on Tuesday, December 13, 2022.

Doug was born January 14, 1961 in Bucyrus, Ohio to the late Robert F. and Dona (Tarbutton) Utz. He was a 1978 graduate of Buckeye Central High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from The Ohio State University in 1982.

Following college, Doug returned home to pursue his lifelong profession in agriculture and farming. He rejoined his father in business as the third generation, expanding the farming operation as well as the certified seed business. Throughout his career, he doggedly pursued and studied the science, innovations, and ideas related to his agricultural endeavors. He was proud to have worked alongside his father, his sons, and his nephew, Jeremy Utz, who he considered one of his own sons.

On March 30, 1985, Doug married the love of his life, Virginia “Ginny” Abbot whom he met at The Ohio State University. Together, they had three children.

Doug was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church where he formerly served in several capacities and sang for many years with the men’s choir. He was active in the community, serving a term on the school board, and supporting many other organizations in which he believed. Through The Ohio State University, he was a member of the Ohio Leadership Education and Development program, with whom he formed life-long connections. He was honored by the Seed Improvement Association’s recognition of Utz Seed Farms’ 75 years of certified seed production.

In the rare moments Doug was not working, he enjoyed reading, following drag racing, spoiling his grandchildren, and spending time at Buckeye Lake in his lake house and on his boat. His greatest pleasure was spending time with his family and extended family, the Abbots. He always thought “any day spent with the Abbots was a good day”. Doug was ever thankful for what God provided and grateful for the life he was given.

He will be deeply missed by Ginny, his wife of 37 years; children, Ryan (Jerilee) Utz, Rory (Taylor) Utz and Mackenzie (Carter Richardson) Utz; grandchildren, Madden, Gracie, and Averie and a grandson soon to be born. Doug is also survived by siblings, Beth (Bob) Warren and Craig (Cathy) Utz; sister-in-law, Barb Utz, many nieces, nephews, and extended family, including Camila Becker, their 2002 foreign exchange student with whom the family has formed a life-long connection. Doug was preceded in death by his older brother, Daniel Utz.

Calling hours will be held from 4-7 pm Tuesday, December 20 at Wise Funeral Service, 129 W. Warren St., Bucyrus, Ohio and from 11-11:55 am Wednesday at St. John’s Lutheran Church sanctuary, 203 E. Mansfield St., New Washington, Ohio. His Memorial Service will begin at 12:00 pm Wednesday and be held in the sanctuary of the church with Pastor Kevin Mohr officiating. Following the service his family will rejoin guests for food and fellowship.

If desired, donations can be made payable to either St. John’s Lutheran Church or the American Cancer Society and these gifts will be accepted through the funeral home or at the church on day of services. Photos and memories are encouraged to be shared on his tribute wall at www.wisefuneral.com.