Roger C. Utley

Roger Charles Utley of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away at Avera McKennan Hospital on Friday, October 11, 2024, at the age of 82.

Roger was born on September 4, 1942, to Raymond and Marjorie (Bendt) Utley. He grew up in Magnolia, MN, and Beaver Creek, MN, and graduated from Beaver Creek High School in 1961. After graduating, he enlisted in the US Navy in 1962 and was honorably discharged in 1964.

On April 22, 1965, Roger married Evelyn Faber in Sioux Falls, SD. He worked for PAX for a year, then Terrace Park Dairy, and later attended Nettleton Business School, where he earned his Associate’s Degree in Accounting.

The couple briefly lived in Sioux Falls before moving to Kasson, MN, where Roger worked for Rochester Accounting Services. They then returned to Sioux Falls, where Roger started his career with Sioux International. After 21 years, Roger retired in 1993.  He then moved to Arizona, where he lived in Tempe and Scottsdale for 2 ½ years before settling back in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. 

Roger and Evelyn were involved in the community, starting Sioux Falls People for Youth, and were active in Youth Softball. Roger coached youth softball for 25 years. In 2004, Roger was inducted into the ASA SD Hall of Fame.

Roger was an enthusiastic fan of the Minnesota Vikings and Twins. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and riding his bicycle.

He is survived by his wife, Evelyn; son, Brian (Darla) Utley; daughter, Dawn (Jason) Stoakes; five grandchildren, Michael (Jeanie) Utley, Brittany (Blake) Dunne, Jeremy (Steven Ettorre) Stoakes, and twins, Jake and Ben Stoakes; three great-grandchildren, Daxton, Ashlyn, and Jetson Utley; and his dear brother, Lyle (Audrey) Utley.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother, Robert.

In remembrance of Roger Utley, the family is encouraging all who want to join us in wearing sports memorabilia during the ceremony to celebrate his life.

A celebration of Roger's Life will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at Miller Westside Chapel, 6200 W. 41st Street, Sioux Falls, SD 57106. A visitation with family present to greet friends will be held on Tuesday, October 15th, from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at Miller Westside Chapel.