Leon C. "Lee" Utegg

Well, well, well, it appears that I, Lee C. Utegg, have managed to leave the party a little too early. Born in the humble town of Hornell, NY on January 26, 1949, I decided it was time to step off the golf course on September 16, 2025. Don't worry though, I've been practicing my swing dancing for the big gig in the sky. I've been many things in my life – an adventurous traveler (did they ever catch that DB Cooper guy?), a proud US Marine, a Defense Contractor for "Uncle Sam" as Director, Government Product Testing, and a resident of more places than a globe-trotting gypsy. From Modesto, California to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Ottawa, and finally The Villages, Florida (where the party never stopped). But above all, I've been the thoughtful, funny, spirited guy you will remember. I've danced, fished, golfed, and even dabbled in magic. Not to mention

my love for live music, woodworking, reading, and opera. When I wasn't busy telling Dad jokes, taking out the boat, or traveling to visit friends & family, I was busy being the life of the party. I've also been a dad, a brother, an uncle, a grandpa, and a pretty good dancer and life partner to Karen Freeman. I leave behind a short list of beloved people who made my life's dance much more than a little jig: My favorite daughter, Ericka (AJ Verel) Graves; sister, Becky (John) Stranges; brother, Arno (Diane) Utegg II; sister, Mary Utegg; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins and of course my oh-so-handsome grandsons, Evan and Ashton Graves. I joined the great beyond with my mother, Margaret Utegg, and Arno Utegg; my only son, Erik Lee Utegg (who owes me a round of golf), and an infant sister, Evon Utegg. For those who'd like to pay their respects (& hear some of my legendary jokes), there'll be a little get-together Sunday November 16th 2-5pm at the Churchill Recreation Center in the Villages and remember, I'm not gone, I've only left the room. Please share photos, stories, and fond memories to celebrate my life at Haugheyfuneralhome.com. After all, the laughter of loved ones was my favorite sound.