Mr. James C. Utterback

James C. Utterback (Jim) of Long Beach, CA passed away December 25, 2021 and was 92 years old. Born in a Chicago suburb in 1929, he was preceded in death by his wife Evelyn (Berna) Utterback, his parents Amos and Margaret (Konwent) Utterback, his brothers Donald Utterback, Raymond Utterback and Larry Utterback. Jim is survived by seven children: Janice (Paul) Wierzbicki, Joyce (Eric) Buehler, David Utterback, Nancy (David) Orr, Melanie (Thomas) McCook, Thomas (Laura) Utterback and Daniel Utterback. He is survived by fourteen grandchildren: Dustin, Jason and Brandon Buehler; Courtney Buehler Slezak; Jeff Orr; Cassandra, Lauren and Jacqueline McCook; Evelyn, Sarah, Grace and Dutch Utterback; Ashley and Cade Utterback. Jim had seven great grandchildren who will hear many stories for years to come about his humor, drive, leadership and generosity. After high school in 1946, Jim joined the US Army and was stationed in Korea as a Cryptographic Technician. After his honorable discharge, he married Evelyn Berna and their family grew quickly. In 1968 Jim accepted a Division Manager position with Electrolux and moved to Long Beach, CA. He was an excellent speaker, motivator and created a positive atmosphere for his sales force. In 1976 he purchased a Century 21 franchise, naming it Century 21 Action!. Applying the skills he learned from Electrolux, Century 21 Action! grew to over 180 real estate agents. He also ran one of the best and most entertaining real estate schools in California where he trained countless agents. His diverse office was run like no other: when you walked through the door you could feel the energy buzzing. Jim is a legend of Long Beach real estate, the positive impact he had on the agents, staff and business associates who worked with him will be felt for years. At 88 years old, Jim retired and sold the Century 21 franchise he had run for over 40 years. Jim was self-educated, a voracious reader, and a member of the Mensa Honor Society. His self-motivation was also present in his personal life. The morning staff at The Belmont Athletic Club knew him very well; he was there by 6:00 AM every day to workout - no excuses - jokingly telling staff that they should be open on Christmas Day. After Evelyn passed away in 1986, Jim took his family (kids, spouses and grandkids) on vacations every few years. He created wonderful memories and kept the family close because of his love, generosity and sense of adventure. A private family service will be held at the graveside. A "Celebration of Life" is being planned and will be held in the upcoming months. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to New Life Beginnings (https://newlb.org), a non-profit organization located in Long Beach which Jim supported for many years. The link above to send flowers is an advertisement, instead, take a friend to lunch and raise a glass to Jim, make a donation in his name to New Life Beginnings or honor Jim in your own way.