Arwin "Spud" Uttech

On Wednesday, February 5th, 2025, Arwin “Spud” Uttech passed unexpectedly at Makati Medical Center while on vacation in the Philippines. His departure leaves a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Spud was born to Arvid and Alleyne Uttech on June 30, 1951 in Dickinson, ND. He was the second of 5 children. From a young age he embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved playing football, basketball and baseball while also mowing lawns and helping at his parents’ store, the “Uttech Bootery.” After Spud graduated from Bowman High school in 1970, He continued his passion for sports at Dickinson State University. At DSU, he played football and earned a degree in elementary education with a minor in physical education. It was there that he met Bonnie Buchli, and in 1975 they began a marriage of 30 years, welcoming three daughters BreAnn, Brittney, and Brigette into their lives.

Spud dedicated his life to teaching and coaching, starting his career in Hettinger before moving to Hebron, ND in 1976. Over the next 20 years he inspired countless students and athletes. His coaching achievements were numerous, including leading teams to conference championships and earning the title of NDHSCA 1980 Class B Boys Track & Field Coach of the Year. He was also the Hebron High School Athletic Club Leader and was a member of the North Dakota High School Coaches Association. Beyond his official roles, Spud was active in his community. He was a Jaycee member where he planned and organized recreational events for Fall Festival, Watermelon Days, and Junior Olympics. Most summers you could see him taking his daughters and many young track athletes to the AAU events, Prairie Rose games, and Hershey Track & Field meets.

His influence extended far beyond the classroom and field. Over a teaching career spanning 40 years and multiple schools from Western North Dakota to Eastern Montana. Spud gave his heart to helping many generations of kids learn. His dedication to sports continued as a referee and umpire. He became a part of the North Dakota High School Activities Association where he refereed football for 25 years, basketball for 17 years, and umped baseball for 22 years. He officiated high school and amateur tournaments across the state. Through every game he called, every team he coached, and every student he mentored, Spud left an indelible mark. His heart and home were always open, offering guidance to athletes, students, and friends, many of whom saw him as a second father.

Spud’s zest for life was infectious. He was hard working, charismatic, adventurous and outgoing. He enjoyed nothing more than being with people, family and friends. Whether playing cribbage, setting up backyard obstacle courses for his daughters, or boating at Hazen Bay and Lake Tschida, he lived life to the fullest. Spud loved being in God’s creation. Hunting was one of his favorite pastimes, along with attending sporting events live or watching them on TV. His love for the outdoors was matched only by his passion for sports. He was a diehard NDSU, Packers, Nebraska Cornhuskers, and Oakland A’s fan. His travels often took him to Chelan, WA, and Shasta, CA, where he cherished time with his brother Skip, nephews and extended family, always seeking new adventures.

His faith was important to him. Spud was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church in Hebron, ND. He served as a youth leader, Sunday school teacher, and Bible study teacher. He spent many years volunteering at the Crystal Springs Baptist Camp at Crystal Springs, ND. There he touched more lives as the camp recreational director. Spud loved the Lord and spent years attending Prairie View Church in Beulah, ND and attending online with Faith Chapel in Billing, MT.

Though the past eight years brought health challenges, Spud never let them dampen his spirit. He continued to explore, travel, and make lasting memories with those he loved. Whether attending concerts, cheering on his favorite teams, or reconnecting with former athletes at the Huly Invitational, he remained a vibrant presence full of life and love.

Spud’s boundless energy and infectious smile will be deeply missed by all who loved him. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by parents, Arvid and Alleyne Uttech; sister, Nadeen Uttech; infant son, Benjamin Uttech; and his great- niece, Iris Kelley Uttech.

He is survived by three daughters, BreAnn (Scot) Mecham of Billings, MT, Brittney (Kody) Scharosch of Bismarck, ND, & Brigette (Andrew) Lockrem of Bismarck, ND; four grandchildren, Cambree and Brynlee Mecham, and Aspyn and Krew Scharosch; two brothers, Skip (Carol) Uttech of Chelan, WA, & Kevin Uttech of Bowman, ND; one sister, Renee (James) Schaeffer of Bowman, ND; nieces, Kolby and Kacee Schaeffer; nephews, John (Terra) Uttech of Shasta, CA and Tim (Leanne) Uttech of Chelan, WA; great-nephews, Ryder, Ivan, and Tev Uttech; and a great niece, Ella-Rae Uttech.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, May 3rd at Century Baptist Church in Bismarck, ND. A fellowship lunch will follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Century Baptist White Cross Ministry’s and Christian Adoption Services.

centurybaptist.org/new-here/ministries/for-the-city/white-cross

christianadoptionservicesorg.ddock.gives