Ferdinand S. Buttschardt

September 17, 1936 - April 22, 2018

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. 

In Loving Memory

Wir werden Ferde immer in liebevoller und guter Erinnerung behalten. Er war als unser Bruder und Patenonkel stets ein präsenter und wichtiger Teil der Familie. We will preseserve the loving memory to our brother and godfather Ferd. He was always a present and important part of our family. In love Didi (Friedlinde) and Alex Werner, Sylvia, Stefan and Moritz

Werner and "Didi" Buttschardt and Family

Biberach - Germany, DE

Dear Diane, John and I were so saddened to learn of Ferd's passing. He certainly had an impressive career, but most of all had a life well lived. I am sure he was so proud of his beautiful family - you and your children and grandchildren. We so enjoyed our time spent with the two of you at Aki's (and Renee's) parties. Our love goes out to you. John and Miki Karg

John and Miki Karg

Salt Lake City, Ut

Just heard of Ferd's passing and want to express our sympathy for your lost. He was a long time friend and coworker and we are truly sorry to hear.

Dorman and Jane Fulton

Minneapolis, MN

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