Robert C. Utter

Robert C. “Bob” Utter, 88, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2026.

Born October 5, 1938, Bob was a Life Scout who began working at the age of 14 at his father’s service station. He graduated from Howe High School and went on to attend General Motors Institute (now Kettering University), where he was a member of the Alpha Gamma Upsilon fraternity and earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He later earned an M.B.A. from Indiana University.

Bob enjoyed a distinguished 40-year career with Allison Transmission. He was credited with several patents during his tenure and retired as Director of Military Engineering.

His passions included boating, bridge, golf, and, above all, time spent with family and friends. It brought him great joy to teach his children’s friends how to water ski. In retirement he loved visiting his home in Bonita Springs, Florida, which allowed him to play golf year-round.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Margaret Utter, and by his beloved wife of 48 years, Patricia Matthews Utter.

He is survived by VerLee Tennenhouse; his brother, Max Utter; his children, Bill Utter (Liz) and Lynn Utter Cutchins (Kelly); his grandchildren, Kelly Utter Schenkman (Jeff), Michael Utter (Lauren), Chris Utter, Clint Cutchins (Layne), and Drew Cutchins; and one great-grandchild, Chloe Schenkman. 

Services arranged by Flanner Buchanan - Memorial Park (9350 E. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46229). A Visitation will be held Saturday, October 24, 2026 from 11am to 12:30pm. Funeral Service to begin at 12:30pm. Robert will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery.