The Utz community and the wider snack food industry are mourning the reported death of Michael W. “Mike” Rice, the longtime business leader who helped transform Utz Quality Foods from a regional potato chip manufacturer into a nationally recognized snack brand. Rice reportedly died on October 10, 2026, in Hershey, Pennsylvania, surrounded by his family. He was 84 years old.

Remembered for his decades of leadership, commitment to family, and dedication to community service, Rice leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond the company he helped grow. His influence can be seen in Utz’s development, the people he mentored, and the charitable initiatives he supported throughout his life.

Michael W. Rice Dies at 84

According to the information provided in reports about his passing, Michael W. “Mike” Rice died on October 10, 2026, in Hershey, Pennsylvania, at the age of 84.

The family has not publicly disclosed a cause of death. Funeral arrangements and memorial information are reportedly being shared through Kenworthy Funeral Home in Hanover, Pennsylvania.

His reported passing marks the loss of a prominent figure in the history of Utz Quality Foods and a respected member of the Hanover community.

Early Life and Family Connection to Utz

Rice was born on October 4, 1942, in Hanover, Pennsylvania. He was the grandson of William and Salie Utz, who founded the family business in 1921.

His connection to Utz began when he was young. During summer breaks, he worked at the company unloading potato sacks and helping with other tasks. These early experiences introduced him to the daily operations of the family business and helped establish a relationship that would shape his professional future.

What began as a childhood connection eventually developed into a career spanning more than five decades, during which Rice helped guide the company through significant changes and expansion.

Education and Rise to Leadership

Rice pursued higher education before formally joining the family business. He graduated from Mount St. Mary’s University in 1965 and earned his law degree from George Washington University Law School in 1968.

That same year, he joined Utz professionally. He became executive vice president in 1970 and was appointed president and chief executive officer in 1978. In 1992, he assumed the additional responsibility of chairman.

His progression through the company’s leadership reflected a long-term commitment to the family enterprise and its continued development.

Michael Rice’s Impact on Utz Quality Foods

Rice played a significant role in expanding Utz from its Pennsylvania and Maryland roots into a nationally recognized snack food company.

Under his leadership, the business broadened its product offerings, strengthened manufacturing operations, and expanded its distribution network. These developments helped Utz reach more consumers while maintaining its identity as a family-founded company.

His leadership combined the traditions on which the business was established with efforts to position the company for growth in an increasingly competitive snack food market.

Rice transitioned to executive chairman in 2012, creating room for the next generation of leaders to assume greater responsibility for daily operations.

Following Utz’s public listing in 2020, he continued serving as a director and chairman emeritus before retiring from the board in 2024.

In recognition of his and his wife’s contributions, the company later named its Hanover logistics center the Rice Distribution Center.

Philanthropy and Community Service

Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Rice and his wife, Jane, supported charitable causes and community institutions in Hanover.

In 2017, the couple established the Rice Family Foundation, which supports education, health, and family well-being in the community.

Rice also contributed to local organizations, including the Hanover Area YMCA and Hanover Hospital. His involvement reflected an interest in strengthening the community where he was born and where the Utz family business developed.

Through these efforts, his legacy extended beyond commercial success to include support for institutions and initiatives that serve local residents.

Michael Rice’s Family and Personal Life

Rice was married to Jane for 60 years. Together, they raised their family and supported charitable initiatives throughout the Hanover area.

He is survived by Jane, their children, grandchildren, extended family members, and loved ones.

His death is a personal loss for those closest to him and a significant moment for the business community and local institutions connected to his work.

Further details about memorial services and funeral arrangements are reportedly available through Kenworthy Funeral Home in Hanover.

Remembering Michael W. “Mike” Rice

Michael W. “Mike” Rice will be remembered as a business leader who helped guide Utz Quality Foods through decades of expansion, strengthening its position in the American snack food industry while preserving its family-business heritage.

His life also reflected a commitment to education, philanthropy, and community service. From his early summer jobs at the family company to his years as CEO and chairman, Rice remained closely connected to the business founded by his grandparents.

Although his cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, his reported passing at 84 has prompted reflection on the company he helped build and the community he supported.

Our condolences go to Jane Rice, their children and grandchildren, the extended Rice family, and everyone mourning his passing.