The first day of school Aug. 23 was one of sadness for some at Brandywine Heights School District.
Brandywine student Bobby Joe Utley, 17, of Fleetwood, died Saturday, Aug. 20, after an incident at Raystown Lake, Huntingdon County, according to his obituary. See obituary notice on B4.
On Aug. 23 he should have begun his first day as a Brandywine senior.
Brandywine Heights Superintendent Andrew Potteiger said Bobby Joe was also attending Berks Career and Technology Center in the HVAC program.
“It is a tragic loss to the family, school district and our community,” said Potteiger. “Our thoughts and prayers go out the family as they struggle during this difficult time.”
Brandywine continued with its planned first day activities.
“While at the same time remembering and celebrating the life of Bobby Joe,” said Potteiger. “We had a flight team of trained counselors and support teachers from the county on site to comfort students who may have been struggling during this difficult time.”
According to his obituary, Bobby Joe was a son of Gary P. and Angela F. (Ruppert) Utley, with whom he resided. Ludwick Funeral Homes, Inc., Kutztown is in charge of arrangements.
