William graduated from Reagan High School in 1961. He worked as a machinist for several Houston area companies for 37 years, retiring in 2004. In his free time, he enjoyed classic cars, police-related TV shows and tinkering with machines, both broken and soon-to-be-broken. His

hobbies included collecting model cars and exploring computers and technology. His favorite thing was a special vacation to Hawaii. He will be most remembered for loving his grandkids.

William was preceded in death by his parents, James and Illys Utz.

William is survived by his wife of 62 years, Andrea Utz of Columbus; his sons, James Utz and wife Elizabeth of Georgetown, and William “Bill” Utz of Conroe; and grandchildren, Blaze Aaron Utz and Avery Rebecca Utz.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, from 2 - 4 p.m. at The Lighthouse at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 201 Veterans Dr., Columbus.

Memorials may be made in William’s name to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105. Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome.

com.