Clayton Dean Yutzy, 77, of Littleton, CO, peacefully went home to be with his Lord and Savior on July 30, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Clayton was born on December 14, 1948, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to Edward and Emma Yutzy. He attended Harmony Grade School and Yoder Grade School before graduating as Salutatorian from Central Christian School in 1966. He continued his education at Hesston College.

Throughout his high school and college years, Clayton excelled in athletics, particularly basketball and fast-pitch softball. His love for sports remained with him throughout his life, especially his passion for basketball and for cheering on his children and grandchildren at their sporting events.

In 1968, Clayton moved to Denver, Colorado, where he completed his 1-W service by working in a local hospital. After fulfilling his service, he chose to make the Denver area his home, building a life centered on faith, family, and service to others.

He met the love of his life, Ethel Detweiler, at a Mennonite church social, and they were married on July 30, 1977. Together they shared 49 years of marriage built on love, devotion, and family.

Clayton worked at Custom Art from 1970 to 1990. He then joined Woodworkers of Denver, where he was a skilled woodworker until his retirement. He took great pride in his craftsmanship and the quality of his work.

Clayton will be remembered as a man who deeply loved his family and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He enjoyed woodworking, collecting firewood, and spending time with those he loved. He especially enjoyed playing games, with Yahtzee being his favorite, and his competitive spirit made every game memorable. Whether working on a project, attending a ballgame, or simply spending time with family, Clayton found joy in being present and investing in the lives of others.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ethel Yutzy, Littleton, CO; his daughter, Kristine (Dave) Peaney, Newton, KS; his sons, Curi (Kari) Yutzy, Highlands Ranch, CO; and Derek Yutzy, Highlands Ranch, CO; his cherished grandchildren, Kara Peaney, Emily Peaney, Bentley Yutzy, Nora Yutzy, Porter Yutzy, and Elle Yutzy; three sisters Thelma (Willis) Kauffman, South Hutchinson, KS; Wilma Leahy, Wichita, KS; and Vi (Keith) Leinbach, Haven, KS; sister-in-law Judy Yutzy, Buhler, KS; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Clayton was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Emma Yutzy, and by his siblings, Gladys (Charles) Meadows, Estella (Phillip) Headings, and Lloyd Yutzy, and brother-in-law, Tom Leahy.

Clayton's generous heart, love for his family, and competitive spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. His legacy of kindness, service, and devotion to Christ will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.

A private family graveside service will be held Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the Yoder Cemetery. A funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Columbine Baptist Church, 5660 W. Coal Mine Avenue, Littleton, CO. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, August 7, 2026, with the family present from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

Memorials are suggested to the Clayton Yutzy Memorial Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, Kansas 67501. Memorials will be distributed to two organizations important to Clayton and his family, ThunderRidge High School Woodworking Program and Gold Crown Foundation-Basketball Programs. To benefit the Clayton Yutzy Memorial Fund, please make the check payable to Elliott Mortuary.