Russell Utter

Russell Utter, 71 of Dumas, passed away on Tuesday, February 26, 2019. Graveside services are pending with Arlington National Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Directors. Russell was born on November 15, 1947 in Ionia, Michigan to Russell Sr. and Leona Utter. In June of 1967, Russell enlisted in the United States Army as an E-1, serving as a combat medic for the 9th Infantry Division during Vietnam. He was promoted through the ranks to E-7, Warrant Officer and later became fully commissioned as a physician's assistant in the officer ranks. Russell ended his military career by serving as an instructor for the United States Army Physician Assistant Program as Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX. Russell retired in 1997 after serving for 30 years on active duty with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. After retiring from military service, Russell went on to work as a physician's assistant at Concentra Urgent Care Clinic for 10 years and at the Thomas E. Creek V.A. Medical Center in Amarillo for 3 years in the Primary Care Clinic. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister. Russell is survived by his wife, Linda Utter, of the home; daughter: Patricia Garansuay and husband Clavio of Amarillo; son: Ryan Utter and wife Natalie of Jacksonville, FL; grandchildren: Ryan Garansuay and wife Chelsea of Amarillo, TX and Reese Utter of Jacksonville, FL; great grandchild: Remington Garansuay of Amarillo, TX; former wife: Linda Jane Utter of Amarillo, TX. The family suggests with gratitude that memorials contributions be made to Memorial Hospice, 224 E 2nd, Dumas TX 79029.