John Utterback

MONTICELLO / MADISON - John Vincent Utterback, 76, passed away peacefully at his home on June 29, 2026, surrounded by the nature he so dearly loved. He was caring for his “best garden ever by digging like a gopher in soft dirt and having fun” as he recently reported in a family text.

Born on May 21, 1950, in Baraboo, John lived a life marked by kindness, generosity and unwavering devotion to those he loved. A proud United States Army veteran and Purple Heart recipient, John served his country with honor and carried that same spirit of service into every aspect of his life. After two tours of duty in Vietnam, he continued his service by joining Army Reserve unit Troop E 4th Calvary.  Many of his fellow reservists remain friends to this day and are affectionately called “The Dirty Thirty.”

He was known to many simply as “John” or “JV” or “Dad” or “Grandpa John.” John had a heart of gold and was always just a phone call away, ready to lend a hand or a listening ear or offer some piece of history. John was an avid history buff and a voracious researcher of Utterback ancestry. He continually amazed us by his ability to recall and discuss new connections he discovered. He also became fully immersed in Civil War reenactments.  His attention to detail was astounding.   

John is survived by his daughter, Katie and her partner Sean of Tampa, Fla.; his son, Joey and his partner Laura of Madison; his grandchildren Kian, Vincent and Aiyda and their mother Jess Angha of Sun Prairie. He continued a special relationship with his former spouse, Nancy Honaker and her children, Jim Fosdick and Amy Fosdick. He was watched over to the end by his devoted canine companion, Simba.  

John grew up on the family farm in McFarland surrounded by his gregarious and loving family.  He is survived by his brother, Wayne (Linda Kieffer); sisters, Julianne “Dede” Pfeifer (Jim), Mary Lou Fuller (Jeff), Pat Weiland (Mark), Teresa Utterback, Nancy Utterback and Barb Stenbroten (Gregg).  He is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends. John was predeceased by his loving parents, Vincent Wayne and Julianne “Judy” Utterback.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date. Please consider a memorial to your local animal rescue shelter to honor John’s lifelong love of dogs and cats. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

 "What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us." - Helen Keller

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420