Ferdinand S. Buttschardt

Ferdinand (Ferd) Stephan Buttschardt, 81-yrs-young, passed away unexpectedly April 22 at St. Joseph Villa.

Ferd was born September 17, 1936 in Biberach, Germany. As a child, he endured the tragedy of World War Two, an experience that impacted his life in many profound ways. After earning an Economics degree, Ferd immigrated to the US in 1957 with his first wife, Joan, where he became a part of what was then the emerging technological field of computers. In 1972, Ferd married Diane Zagorski, né Lesner, and together they relocated to Utah, New Jersey, California, and back to Utah as Ferd's career advanced. Ferd worked for Sperry Univac for 21 years, attaining the position of Senior Director, after which he held senior management and executive level positions with TTI, Martindale & Hubble, Citibank, and Zions bank. 

Ferd's passions were his wife, family, skiing, and the mountains. Ferd shared his love of skiing with his family; his enthusiasm, instruction, and joy for the sport creating new generations of avid skiers. Ferd's best ski buddy was his wife, Diane. Together they hit the slopes, sun or storm, for 45-yrs.  This year they skied over 30 days. Ferd, a 2-time cancer survivor, was a true gentleman, family man, our emotional rock, and the precious gem of our family. He is survived by his wife, Diane, sister Didi, five children, 12 grandchildren, and one great grandchild.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday May 4, 2018 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking on the north side of the building. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at 11:00 AM at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 3015 East Creek Road, Cottonwood Heights.