ROCHELLE — Steven Todd Utley, 60, born April 30, 1961, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 29 after a long illness with family near.

Loving and loved son, brother, father, papa, cousin, uncle, nephew and friend, Steve was born and raised in Rochelle, the son of James (Jim) and Delores (Lois) Marler-Utley. 

Steve graduated from Rochelle Township High School with honors and later attended Northern Illinois University. He was always on the honor roll and was recognized in Who’s Who. He married Kathy Whitten Utley in 1986 and they had two children, Stephanie and Jeremy.

Steve was a hard worker, working rotating shifts as an operator at the Byron Nuclear Plant to provide for his family. He was well liked by his coworkers and made many friends during his time there. Some of Steve’s many loves included riding dirt bikes and motorcycles, listening to music, spending time with family and watching football. 

Steve was a simple man with a kind and generous heart. He always wanted to make sure everyone around him was comfortable. He never wanted or asked for anything from anyone and was the absolute hardest person to buy gifts for!

Steve was a one of a kind person who was incredibly proud of his children and loved his mother dearly. We will miss his smile, his laugh and his eye rolls! We will miss ordering pizza and watching football games and Law & Order with him. 

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Jim Utley, and his brother, Tim Utley. 

Steve is survived by his mother, Lois Utley (Walter Lee), daughter, Stephanie Utley, son Jeremy Utley (Stephanie Nolan-Utley), step-daughter, Mary Williams, grandsons Braxton and Jace, girlfriend, Cindy, and many aunts, uncles, nephews, cousins and friends. 

There will be a celebration of life Saturday, July 17 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the VFW in Rochelle.