Dick Kutz

(From Lakin Funeral Home)

Richard (Dick) Raymond Kutz, 80, passed away on July 22, 2025, at his home in Joplin, MO. Mr. Kutz was born June 25, 1945, to Ben and Freda Kutz of Sarcoxie, the fourth of six sons. His family moved to Pierce City, MO in May 1950. He attended St. Mary’s grade school and Pierce City High School, graduating in 1963. 

During his high school years, the town was painted with Dick’s artwork, whether it be storefront window signage, billboards along the highway entering town, or many pickups with his painted lettering. He also helped his dad at the Kutz Standard Service station on West Commercial and delivered both the Joplin Globe and Monett Times newspapers. He earned letters in football, basketball and track at PCHS and was captain of the football team in his senior year. He followed in the footsteps of his brother Ben who was captain the prior year. It is believed to be the first time brothers were captains in consecutive years. 

Mr. Kutz graduated from Southwest Missouri State in 1968 and began a five-decade career teaching art in the Mount Vernon, Pierce City and Diamond school districts. Several of his students followed in his footsteps and became art teachers in southwest Missouri. One of his greatest joys was seeing so many of his art students win awards in district competitions. He designed and painted the logo Eagle in the Pierce City gym and the logo Bear in the Sarcoxie gym. 

While at PCHS, Coach Kutz also served as Athletic Director, Head Football Coach and Track Coach. Many of his athletes went on to compete at the Missouri state track meet in Jefferson City each year. After retiring from teaching, Mr. Kutz served on the Pierce City school board for two terms.

Mr. Kutz married Karen Helga Lauritson Brown on December 12, 1980. She survives. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Don and Ken; infant sister, Mary Ann; and sisters-in-law, Dee Kutz and Betty Kutz. Other survivors include: sons, Rick Kutz of Ardmore, OK and Fred Kutz of Springdale, AR; stepsons, Doug Brown of Fishers, IN and Jeff (Donna) Brown of Alton, MO; brothers, Ben (Yvonne) of Columbia, MO, Jim (Ann) of Richmond, VA, and Tom (Karla) of St. Louis, MO; sister-in-law, Linda Kutz of Brooklyn Park, MN; grandchildren, Josie Kutz, Jenna (Holt) Easter, Jack Kutz, Jordan (Logan) Kutz, Chelsea (Alex) McCoy, Boni Brown, Catherine Brown, and Allie Brown; and great grandchild, Porter Gibson.

A graveside service will be at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 10:30 AM with Father Matt Rehrauer officiating. Memorials may be made, in Dick's memory, to Pierce City School Art Department. Arrangements under the personal care and direction of Lakin Funeral Home.