Steven Ellison Butler

Steven Ellison Butler
June 23,1947 – August 31, 2015

Steve Butler, our charming and witty husband, brother, dad, papa, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Monday, August 31st. The tremendous outpouring of love and best wishes by those who knew him is a touching confirmation that he was admired, respected and loved by so very many. He was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Ambrose Butler and Margaret Fehr Butler on June 23rd, 1947.

Steve went to school in Salt Lake and had just recently attended his 50-year reunion as a graduate of Highland High School. He graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Although he was a talented artist who created beautiful ceramics, drawings, and interiors, his most cherished works are the engagement and wedding rings that he designed and handcrafted for his wife, Kim, whom he met while they were both attending the U. They were married in December of 1970. By far Steve's most wonderful works of art, beauty, and worth are his three children: Jared, Janie, and Allie, and their children: Annie, age 4; Reese, age 2; Jack, age 1; and Ash, age 1. It is impossible to put into words the degree to which we will all miss him.

After college Steve worked at a couple of companies before going to work for Clark Leaming Designs for Business. He gained the background that would enable himself and his partner to branch out on their own and co-found the company that is now Henriksen/Butler Design. It was a tenuous beginning, especially since the sole account they began with went bankrupt before they got started. With a little charm, a lot of hard work, and enormous chutzpah, they created an extremely successful company that now has offices in several states and employs over 160 people. During the building years of the company, Steve said over and over again that his drive to make it succeed was fueled by the responsibility he felt to his employees, and the desire he had to keep them secure in the ability to support their families. In return, his employees loved and respected him, as he counseled, mentored, and encouraged them to be the best that they could be. Many have stated how dramatically he changed their lives for the good.

Steve's appearance was stylish, tasteful and impeccable. He had a special fondness for good cologne and beautiful shoes. His taste and artistic flare also were evident throughout his home, his garden, and his cabin. He created wonderful surroundings where those he loved lived and gathered. He loved good art and good design. He also loved music, and spent many hours by himself with his guitar strumming the music of the bands he loved. His favorites were Santana, the Beatles, ZZ Top, Jimi Hendrix, and Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young, particularly their song "Wooden Ships". He had many other favorites that were not at all artistic. He loved pizza, ice cream, hot mustards, Werther's candy, and The Cinegrill. He loved Cabo San Lucas, lying in the sun, Bees baseball, and skiing. He loved order, precision, and perfection. He loved his cars. He loved us.

Steve will be remembered by everyone for his dry wit and for his ability to make everyone laugh. He will be remembered for his world-famous (OK, neighborhood-famous) homemade salad dressings. He had the ability to make people feel welcome and comfortable. He taught us to care for possessions and to care for our relationships. He taught us that people's feelings are what matter most. He taught us that family is of utmost importance. He was generous with everyone, and especially with his family. He gave us our beloved cabin in Idaho, where we have spent the happiest moments of our lives. He gave us our many vacations to exotic places around the world. He gave us everything of himself, temporal and spiritual, that he was able to give us.

Steve is survived by his wife, Kim; his son Jared (Nicole) Butler; his daughter Janie (Rich) Adamson; his daughter Allie (Ben) Adams; his grandchildren Reese Butler, Ash Adamson, Annie Adams, and Jack Adams; brother Art (Amie) Butler of Helena, Montana; his sister Susan (Rob) Blake and his sister-in-law Cindy Butler, both of Salt Lake City; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother and father; his brother Roger; and his nephew Mac and Jesse.

Family and friends may call on Monday, September 7th, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, UT. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 8th, at 11:00 a.m. at This Is the Place Heritage Park, 2601 East Sunnyside Ave., Salt Lake City, UT. Family and friends may call prior to the service from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Following the memorial, a private graveside service will be held at Holladay Memorial Park.