Eric Utech Obituary

Tonight I went looking for Eric, online, and found out about the loss of him.

I wanted to say here what a profound impact Eric had on me, first as a boy, then as a young man. When we were kids, Eric was this infusion of unique perspective, new ideas, and completely confident initiative. He put me on to some of my favorite books as a kid, and always seemed to be up to something interesting. I remember sleeping over at the Utechs for the first time, and his showing me the rock candy he was making in the closet, with a light bulb, sugar water, and string. Cool! He also was the only person, including parents and teachers, who could get the concepts of long multiplication through to me without tears and gnashing of teeth and paper.

Eric and I drifted apart, as kids do. Later, in high school, we bumped up against one another, happily. We never really got to be good friends again, but unlike many high schoolers, we were never embarrassed to show how much we still liked one another. He never held back. I did, all the time, but couldn’t with Eric.

I didn’t want to go to my 10-year high school reunion. Long story short, I had to, because I was writing a script about a 10-year high school reunion, and couldn’t excuse myself from attending. I was terrified but I went, and had a great time, shockingly. I have to say it, as I’ve said many times since that night: the one person I most enjoyed there was Eric. He was, again, completely open and loving and hilarious that night, completely unselfconscious. He wore a snazzy white suit, and brought a photo album of his life, lovingly and ingeniously put together. I just kind of stood there amazed, talking to him, wishing I could be the way he was that night, soaking it all up, giving of himself with no anxiety whatsoever. He really was the adult version of the completely individual, singular, adventurous, witty kid with whom I hung out in grade school. Amazing.

It was no surprise to find out that he was an art teacher. How rare it is for someone’s nature and interests to line up into a life’s work? His curiosity, rigor, wonder, and pleasure in human connection as well as his natural talent and eye came together, I’m guessing, perfectly.

Over the years I’ve thought about him many times, and thought about contacting him when I’ve returned to Chicago. But life gets busy, and this happens, then that does… It shows me that if one has the instinct to connect with someone, one really has to follow it. I would have loved to have one more session with Eric. He was a wonderful, individual, inspired FULL person who impacted me more than I suppose I’ve written here.

I send all of my love to his family. We were all lucky to have Eric around.

Sincerely,

D.V. DeVincentis

Few people make such an impact on so many lives. I only knew Eric for a short time, but whenever I think of him a smile overpowers my face.

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Eric's untimely death. My condolences are with you and your family.

Caroline Anliker Nakic

I learned of Eric's passing in the recent ETHS ALumni Newsletter. Although, I have had no contact with Eric since High School I remember him fondly as a quiet, friendly and personable youngman. I am so sorry for your loss. (M.Moore, Kansas City)

Utech family and friends I to feel the loss of one of the kindest, gentlest people I have met. I smile when I think of the many funny moments during art class at ETHS.

Dear Dave and Carolyn, Ali, and the rest of the family,
I am so sad. We just tonight learned about Eric's death. I have read through this amazing guest book and have to say what a beautiful gift to the world he has been. I am so sorry he left us so early on. May love and prayers help your healing, one day at a time.

I am so sorry to hear that Eric is gone. I did theater with Andy in high school and got to hang out with Eric after I graduated. I remember his creativity, intelligence and especially his wit. His life was a gift to so many. I am keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers.

Mr.Utech was the best art teacher, and he had very funny storries! one that was very funny was when he sat on a cup-cake! And he was one of the teachers that loved my tallents and really understoood me! Mr.Utech, you would be missed suverily.

~ Elizabeth Box Hoffman class of 2009<3

Dave and Family,
I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of your son. My heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family.

Barbara Joseph
Resource, Lincoln School, District 65

Carolyn,
I don't know if you remember me, but I worked in the 34 Ad Bldg for many years in Curriculum and later full time in Student Services. I just ran into someone at Starbucks who told me about Eric and I was stunned. I remember him so well from the moment he interviewed for the DePaul Program to his being accepted and then being in the building every week for their group study time. He and I would have wonderful discussions and I always thought he was a sensitive and caring man. And his art was wonderful!
You and your family are in my prayers. This Christmas season is going to be a tough one and I pray that God's strength will sustain you.

Pam Meyers

Dear Ali and family
We are very sad to hear of your tragic loss. We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.

My daughter and I were sadden to hear about Eric. It was a life gone too soon. Eric was creative, a good listener, and compassionate. I will miss those opportunities to meet-up and share what is happening in our lives. Eric, you are truly missed by many people.

Growing up in Glenview we are blessed to live in such a great place where peace is a usual, When I heard that my old art teacher had died I lost a little piece of myself. To the sugar skulls for El Dia Lod Muertes, and listening to yellow sumbarine, that was part of my childhood, the least we can do For the family of the Utech's is share our memories on how such a great man gave so much to all the students at Hoffman school. Teaching my brother and I three years each, for all of the Mossell family RIP ERIC UTECH the best teacher and friend anyone can have.
- Jesse Mossell

Dear Ali,

Our hearts go out to you during this unimaginable time. Everyone at The Northwest Passage hopes and prays for you, Eric's family and the many lives he touched.
Sincerely,
Keith, Nancy and all The Northwest Passage staff.

Dear Ali,
Until today, I was unaware of your loss. I had the pleasure of meeting Eric 2 years ago at the NTDSE holiday party, and greatly enjoyed his sense of humor. He clearly had a passion for his family and his profession. I can only imagine the depth of his pain and the sorrow of your loss. I hope that the support of your family and friends will help you find peace.
With deepest sympathy,
Kathy Morgan

In a world where people struggle with low self esteem & confidence, Eric Utech filled his students with positive energy. He boosted the confidence of my daughters during their time in his classroom & beyond. He was a special man who made my girls feel valid, important & special. My girls are now 21, 19 & 16. They have not forgotten the way he taught them that enthusiasm, energy & the courage to believe in youself can last a lifetime. I have to believe he is continuing to give his gifts from heaven.

Dear Dave & Carolyn,
We are so sorry to hear about your lose. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Eric was a wonderful gift from God. Only He knows why Eric was called home early. You'll find out why
when you are reunited with him.

I had Mr. Utech about a decade ago as my art teacher. I still remember his hair in the ponytail, genuine personality, and warm smile. He always inspired me as an artist, and was a remarkable person as well as teacher. RIP, my heart goes out to family and friends

I didn't know Eric but he had a profound impact an a member of my family that she won't soon forget. He was kind, caring, but most of all, funny. He also consistently put other before himself. I msyelf remain in envy of those lucky enough to have known him.

Dear Dave and Carolyn,
I am so sorry to hear of Eric's death. Although I didn't know him, I know how proud you are of your children. In the curriculum office of Dist. 65, Dave would share stories of what the kids were up to at various stages of their lives.
Love and memories will comfort you.
Anne Harkonen

Just thinking of you Bro. I really wish that I had spent more time in the water with you this summer. It was always clear how free you were in the waves. You taught a lot of people about humility. You'll be in our thoughts always. Be at Peace.

Michael

Mr. Utech was one of the coolest teachers i ever had. his spirit will live on..

Eric had the gentlest smile and kindest eyes. He was a gentle soul that was full of warmth for all he met. It was my honor to having known him. He was an integral part of my IEA family. God bless.

I am so sad to hear of Eric's passing. Eric and I taught together at Evanston Art's Camp many years ago. He embodied the true spirit of an artist. My thoughts and prayers are with Ali and his family.

I was very sad to hear of Eric's passing. I worked with him at Evanston Arts Camp years ago and have a wonderful memory of him that I still tell. One day, while I was working in the office, Eric came in with a misbehaving camper. What made it memorable was that this camper was a legend for his bad behavior, and that Eric, in his fury, had carried the camper up to the second floor office on the Arts stool the student was still sitting on! It makes me smile to think about it all these years later. My sympathy goes out to his family and Ali. Maya Kulycky (Cape Town, South Africa)

Eric was a great man. He was brilliant and wise, kind and compassionate. He was a talented and creative artist. He was an inspiring and gifted teacher. He was a loyal and caring friend.

My hope is that we soon find comfort in the sincere outpouring of love and fond remembrances of Eric, especially those of his students. His life mattered and he will not be forgotten.

Being at the funeral for Eric today just gave all of us the opportunity to hear more wonderful stories about this truly wonderful man, friend, and teacher.

Ali and Family-may you find comfort in knowing how truly loved Eric will always be.

In this time of Thanksgiving we are very thankful to have known such a truly talented and remarkable man. The classrooms, hallways and stages of Hoffman School will never be the same. Our most heartfelt condolences to Eric's family and friends.

To be reminded that each minute you have - with family, friends and the kids you teach - is just THAT important..

Eric, I'll miss you, in all the things that you blessed each day. Go in peace.

I am very sorry to learn of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Dear Utech Family,
Our deepest condolences to you all. Mr. Utech taught both of our sons art at Hoffman School.The environment in his classroom was one where kids were inspired to be creative,regardless of their artistic talents. We still have all of the "masterpieces" that they created under his tutelage. I remember every Halloween when we were all consumed with what costumes the kids would wear, planning school parties, and the candy we would pass out, Mr. Utech gave more meaning to the holiday for our children. He taught the kids the significance of what this day means to other cultures and how they celebrate the day. We still have the " Day of the Dead" sculpture that one of my kids did in his class on display in our home. Unfortunately, the sugar skulls I am sorry to say, did not last as long. What cool projects! Our sons are both in high school now and Mr. Utech is one of the teachers they both remember and cherish during their elementary years. I don't know many kids including myself, that got to create and study art the way he taught it. Also, the scenery he created and helped the children to create for the holiday shows and 5th grade end of the year productions were awesome! I still remember the "We are the People" show he helped create with Mrs. Bergman. Mr. Utech's work and commitment to the children of School District 34 was demonstrated every day. I thank him for that and and he will be truly missed by our entire family.
Sincerely,
The Lucari Family

Dearest Carolyn and Dave,
We just heard the tragic news last night. Your family holds such a special place in our hearts and we are overwhelmed with grief and disbelief. No words will ease your pain, but know that our thoughts, prayers and love are with you during this unimaginably sad time.
With deepest sympathy,

dear david and carolyn: we are not meant to bury our children. i am so sorry. love and prayers.

mary brugliera

Ali - Jane and I heard the news via FB over the weekend, and we have both been thinking of you often since then. Eric was a truly warm and generous soul, able to see and understand the ironies of life without becoming jaded or bitter. Know that we're remembering him and thinking of you from the other side of the world.

Though I worked in the same district as Eric for many years, I never had the personal pleasure of really getting to know him. I did, however, hear many wonderful and inspiring stories from other teachers. It was apparent the positive impact he had on all those who were privileged to have crossed his path. May he be at peace. Love and prayers to his wife and family, Isabelle Santos Kinney

Mr. Utech was my art teacher. He was very funny, and creative. He was a very good artist, and a person. The loss of Mr. Utech is very sad. :( RIP...
We all miss him very much.....
-c.c.

Dear Utech family:

Please know that our prayers and thoughts are with you as you navigate this difficult passage of time. I have faith that GOd is holding all of you in his hands and will provide you with the guidance that you need.

Dave and Carolyn: you babysat us, and then we babysat your kids. This touches us deeply.We are here for you when you need us.

Much love,
Karen Brueggemann Williams

Mr. Utech was my art teacher and I loved loved art because he was the best art teacher ever. Mr. Utech was really nice and funny and good at drawing animals. I will always remember the owl he drew on the board. I will miss him.
Isabelle Hedrich

WE ARE VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.GOD WILL COMFORT YOU IN YOUR SORROW.CALL ON HIM IN YOUR LOSS,AND HR WILL BE WITH YOU.GOD BLESS YOU.

Mr. Utech was a great teacher, and I learned many things from him. 4 years later, I still remember the 'NO flying McDonalds signs' for birds, and the 'two eggs and a piece of bacon on a plate.'(a breakfast plate smiley face)He will be remembered as a great teacher to me, and, as I have heard by many of my fellow students, a great man. He was always so nice to everyone. You'll be in my prayers.

Ali and family,

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Although I only met Eric a couple of times, he seemed to be a true individual spirit. This site attests to how much he will be missed by many. My thoughts are with you at this time.

Rikki Benson

Eric Utech was my art teacher three years in a row at Hoffman Elemantry School. When I heard the news that my favorite teacher had got hit by a train I started to sob. He was the best art teacher anyone could have and I will miss him dearly. In loving memory of Eric Utech he was an awesome man and he was my favorite teacher and he will always be.

Eric was a gem of a human being. Funny, wise, kind and compassionate. His spirit will be forever alive in the memories we hold dear.

I remember to this day Mr. Utech was my art teacher in my younger years. He is the only art teacher I've ever had that made me enjoy art. My deepest sympathy to his parents and wife. I feel very deeply for your loss. You are in my prayers.

Dearest Ali, In all seasons, day or night, we are always here for you. It's rare in life to find someone who truly gets ya; Eric did! For that he will always be remembered and cherished. Michael and I embrace you warmly.

Eric was a student in the DePaul/Glenview Program and I had the pleasure of having him as a student. I'll never forget some of the amazingly inspired projects he completed for his classes. He was masterfully creative. The world has lost a talented soul. On behalf of the DePaul School of Education, I offer our deepest sympathies to Ali and family.

David and the Utech family. I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Eric. Know that you are in my thoughts and Eric is in my prayers. Elaine Carlino

Although tears may swell in our eyes when we remember Mr. Utech, smiles always appear on our faces. He engaged and inspired so many children through his art classes and kind soul. We will miss him dearly.

May the Utech family find comfort in the warmth of these many tributes and from their own cherished memories.

Ali- my heart is with you during this difficult time of grief. Eric seemed like a wonderful person and I now you were a fantastic couple. Many prayers.
Mary Pat

Carolyn and David - So sorry to read about the death of your son, Eric. Even though I did not know him, I am sure a son of yours was a great guy.
Be at peace with the hope and assurance of the resurrection of Christ and all saints.
I still remember good Women's Caucus days.

Mr. Utech taught more than art to his students - he taught them about life and about the world they live in. Many of us will always remember the thousand origami paper cranes that our children made one semester (that were sent to Eric's brother in Japan) in honor of Sadako Sasaki and to help promote world peace. The students and their parents loved and admired Eric. We hope that the memories of times together will sustain his wife and family. Our prayers and thoughts will continue to be with you.

Mr. Utech taught more than art to his students - he taught them about life and about the world they live in. Many of us will always remember the thousand origami paper cranes that our children made one semester (that were sent to Eric's brother in Japan) in honor of Sadako Sasaki and to help promote world peace. The students and their parents loved and admired Eric. We hope that the memories of times together will sustain his wife and family. Our prayers and thoughts will continue to be with you.

Mr. Utech taught me in Hoffman. He was always my favorite teacher out of all my teachers. Even though I'm in 10th grade now in GBS highschool I still feel like I was his student yesterday. He taught us how to make paper cranes and skeletons out of clay for Holloween, and I will never forget the colorful tile bench and how he told us to avoid making our birds look like check marks. His love for art inhanced mine so that I have put my academic effort in the direction of attending the Art Institute of Chicago.
When I found out this morning, I felt this tight ball in my chest; I could not even cry. But, like all, I'm trying the best I can to deal with it, and I know he is in a better place.
I send my most compassionate and considerate condolences to Mr. Utech's family and friends.

Dearest Ali,
My heart aches for you and your family during this difficult time. Eric was a kind-hearted human being who touched so many lives through his teaching and his talents. He will be missed by many.
Sincerely, Erin Santostefano

My son and daughter are both students of Mr. Utech. My daughter cried herself to sleep she is so sad to lose this great man. My son said he was "funny and nice" (3rd grade).
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family tonight. Please know that your son /husband had a huge impact on the lives of many little people. He made them laugh and he taught them they are all artist.

My daughter Hannah, was lucky to have Mr. Utech as her teacher. She is physically disabled and he never saw her disability only encouraged her to create, be confident and included her in so many activities. Many days, she came home with paint all over her wheelchair.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family for what is
a terrible loss to all that knew him.

Eric, you and Ali were the first friends we made when we first moved to Chicago. We loved hanging out with you, watching bad movies, eating pie, hanging out on the beach. I am forever grateful that Tom and I had you in our lives.

With much love...

Please accept our deepest sympathies. Mr. Utech was a true gentleman and an amazing teacher. He inspired my sons, George and Josh, to create and love art. We will miss his love and enthusiasm dearly.

Mr. Utech impacted everyone of his students life's. There was not one student who did not enjoy his art class. He taught us more than art he taught use about life. He was my favorite teacher and always will be. Thank you for being the best teacher I have ever had!

To whoever is reading this. You must love Mr. Utech soooo much as of I. Remember he is in a nice place now and Now you have someone to be with when you die. That is really important. He was a great teacher and friend. My brother had always been a better artist than me. When I started 3rd grade I said "My art Isn't that good" and you know what he said back? "So? We can fix that. Even though it may be bad it doesn't matter. As long as you try and trust your abiliteis you can do anything." That touched my heart. Now thanks to him I doodle all the time and I'm proud in EVERYTHING I do. Not just art. Please keep him in your prayers and don't let the memories die out. I won't. My friend has known Mr. Utech for 8 years and to see him so sad breakes my heart but makes me happy that so many people care for him.

Student and friend of his,
Nick Moran

Mr. Utech you have changed the life of every single student you have taught. you have taught me more than art you have taught about life. you are my favorite teacher and always will be.thank you for changing my life.

Eric Utech was the greatest art teacher I have ever met. He was very patient, and also humorous. The loss of this man breaks my heart. But, everyone must go. He died so young! Age 42. That's horrible. I am still very depressed at the loss of this great teacher.

Dear Ali: We were very fond of Eric and feel fortunate to have been able to call him a friend. We will miss him very much. Our hearts go out to you and your family.
Collette and Stephen Couper

Ali~
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your husband's family.

Helene (and Alex McC. (Molloy/E Prairie) )

My art teacher a few years ago, I was shocked by this news. Warmest regards to his family, we all miss him. He was a great teacher, and an amazing man.

All my love, thoughts, and prayers are with Ali and her family. Eric was a gentle kind soul and will be missed.

We are greatly saddened to hear of Eric's passing. We have fond memories of Eric from junior high. His kind spirit and sense of humor will be remembered always. Our hearts go out to his wife and family.
Nicole Jacob Marks
Lisa Washington Kuzel
Amber Heffner
Aimee Cohen

My heartfelt condolences to Eric's family. He was a wonderful man and he will be missed by all who had the good fortune to know him. Eric's kindness, humor, and beautiful soul will remain forever in my heart and I will see him each day in the eyes of the children with whom I work. May God comfort you in your loss.

Eric was a colleague, an ear that listened, a cohort in my conspiracies and most of all my friend. You will be deeply missed as you were so deeply loved by everyone who knew you. Ali and Eric's family, my heart and prayers go out to you. Thank you for letting us share Eric. It was my privilege and honor to have worked with Eric. I am a better person and teacher because of him.

Terri Kimura Wheeling, Illinois

My deepest condolences to Eric's family, friends and students.

Despite having lost touch since high school, it gives me great sadness to learn of his passing. He was a kind and gentle person when we were friends more than 20 years ago and, reading the comments of others, continued to impact the lives of others and will be missed.

Eric - I am a better person for having known you: a great teacher, leader and colleague. You will be missed.
Betsy Pawlicki, OP
Illinois Education Association-NEA

Dear Ali and Family,
Eric's energy and compassion will never be forgotten. He worked tirelessly for the benefit of students and staff. He touched so many lives with creativity, caring and commitment. I am so deeply sorry for your loss and grateful for the many contributions Eric made to our school community. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Beth Primer
Board of Education, Glenview #34

To Eric's family.
I was deeply saddened when I heard. I met Eric years ago as a student in my art and education course at DePaul University and later worked with him on his Masters papers as an advisor. We became friends and shared too few conversations around our collective interests in art and pedagogy. His work and the magical examples he conveyed then about children, creativity and teaching I continue to hold up as a barometer for insightful, engaging and innovative work with children. I have and will continue to share his ideas to the large number of pre service elementary teachers who will remain influenced by Eric's judgment and leadership around the teaching of the arts with and for the benefit of children. He set a bar as a teaching artist and professional and will leave a hug hole in our field. He inspired me as he did those who worked along side him at DePaul many years ago. I would like to share from the entire faculty, staff and students from the Department of Teacher Education in the School of Education at DePaul University, our deepest sympathies. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Mr. Utech made such a difference in the lives of many young children. In our home, there are many amazing art projects that Mr. Utech inspired our children to do. He taught them to experience the art and put meaning behind it. Our hearts are saddened for his family and the Glenview community, who were so blessed to have him nurture our children. At this time of thanksgiving, we are thankful for him.

The Nash Family

It was an honor and privilege to work with Eric. His kindness towards every student and colleague he came into contact with is a remarkable legacy he leaves behind. I will miss him tremendously and strive daily to pass his kindness along.

Dearest Ali and Family,
Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss…my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. As I have witnessed life to be short; you must live it LOUD! I did not personally know Eric, but I am a co-worker of Ali's and believe that through Ali's stories of their extraordinary adventures..this was to be true. ?With thoughts of peace and courage for you, Love, Liz

My dear friend and colleague,
You will be missed beyond measure. My deepest sympathies to Ali and the entire family. May your memories bring you comfort through this difficult time.

Elissa Astorino
Pleasant Ridge School
Glenview, illinois

My deepest gratitude to Eric for his devotion to his students and fellow teachers. He will be sorely missed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Eric Utech at this time-Mr. Utech's legacy will continue in the lives of the children he has touched during his many years of inspirational art classes.

To others who love Eric,
I have so many extraordinary memories--roller derby bouts, kayaking parties, co-teaching, cooking lunches for each other. One favorite story--I had recently purchased my condo and was considering teaching summer school to supplement my income. Eric looked at me and said, "It won't cover the therapy."

I wish I had words to make you feel better. He was loved and will be missed terribly.

While I didn't know Eric personally, please accept my deepest sympathies as a fellow teacher (from Evanston D65), who is with you in spirit and wishes you peace and fond memories of your loved one.