Arvid (Skip) Uttech

On Friday, February 20, 2026, Arvid “Skip” Elwain Uttech Jr. peacefully disembarked this life, surrounded by his loving family at his side. He was 76 years old. Skip was born on January 17, 1950, in Dickinson to his parents, Father Arvid Elwain Sr. and Mother Alleyene Uttech. As the firstborn child, he naturally stepped into a role of leadership and responsibility. He was later joined by his brothers, Arwin “Spud” of Beulah and Kevin of Amidon, and his sisters, Rene and Nadine, both of Bowman. The bonds formed in those early years remained a treasured part of his life. Skip graduated from Bowman High School in 1968. In September of 1969, he enlisted in the United States Army. He completed basic training at the U.S. Army Training Center at Fort Lewis and continued his service at the U.S. Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston, where he trained as an Army medic. After three years of active duty and three years in the reserves, Skip was honorably discharged, carrying with him a deepened sense of discipline, compassion, and service. Returning to Washington, Skip devoted his time to another calling—serving his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. At a Bible camp in Des Moines, he poured his heart into mentoring and supporting children. It was there that he met the love of his life, Carol Jean Hedeen of Seattle. They were married on September 14, 1974, beginning a devoted partnership that would span more than five decades. Skip and Carol welcomed their first son, Timothy, in September 1975, and their second son, John, in October 1977. The Bible camp years were filled with faith, laughter, and family memories that shaped their boys’ childhoods and strengthened Skip’s own passion for teaching. Inspired to further his education, Skip moved his family to Ellensburg to pursue his teaching degree at Central Washington University, earning his credentials and launching a career that would impact generations. He accepted a position with the Chelan School District and moved his family to Chelan—a community they would proudly call home for more than 40 years. For more than 20 years, Skip taught science at Chelan Middle School, where his classroom was anything but ordinary. Students fondly remember his lively experiments—from the unforgettable “Egg Drop” off the school rooftop to the explosive excitement of the “Big Bang Lab.” His room was filled with class pets, including a two-headed snake, gerbils, guinea pigs, and hamsters. In Mr. Uttech’s class, science was hands-on, engaging, and full of wonder. Skip’s enthusiasm did not end when the school bell rang. He was a constant presence at Chelan sporting events—announcing, keeping score, and cheering from the sidelines. In one memorable season, he promised the boys’ basketball team that if they went undefeated, he would shave his head. They did—and true to his word, so did he. His students and athletes each earned a permanent place in his “heart of fame,” and the community he loved returned that affection in abundance. Beyond the classroom, Skip and Carol devoted themselves to missionary work and helping families in need. Some of these missions took them overseas, with Austria holding a special place in Skip’s heart. He found pure joy in assisting with home projects, building relationships, and bringing fellowship and encouragement to others. In retirement in 2012, Skip embraced time with his growing family. He and Carol were blessed with five beloved grandchildren: Iris, Rhyder, Ivin, Ellarae, and Tev. Becoming “Papa” was one of his greatest joys. From tea parties to dinosaur adventures, he was always present, hands-on, and wholeheartedly engaged. His grandchildren brought immeasurable happiness to his life. Shortly after retiring, Skip was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He faced his illness with unwavering faith and quiet strength, never complaining and trusting that God walked beside him every step of the way. As the disease progressed, he leaned on the love of his family and the compassionate care of many devoted caregivers, for whom he was deeply grateful. Skip will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his servant’s heart, his playful spirit, and his profound love for family and community. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, joy, and lives forever changed by his influence. He will be tremendously missed and forever cherished.

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Arvid (Skip) Uttech

January 17, 1950 - February 20, 2026