Slavka Kohout Button

Slavka Kohout Button
Slavka Kohout Button, a dynamo of energy and innovation, left an indelible mark on the world of figure skating and beyond. Born to Czech parents in a Czech neighborhood in Chicago, she inherited a legacy of determination and creativity from her parents. Her father, a pioneer in the floral industry, established successful floral shops that burgeoned into greenhouses, trucks, billboards and the founding of what became FTD, while her mother's artwork earned her a place in the esteemed collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.
From a young age, Slavka's prowess on the ice was evident. She soared to become a two-time Midwestern sectional senior ladies champion and a bronze medalist in the U.S. Junior Ladies Championships. Notably, at just 13, she became the first person from Chicago to pass the gold figure test, a feat achieved by only a handful in the U.S. She dazzled audiences with her energetic and graceful performances across the United States and Canada, captivating hearts with her avant-garde style. Her other tests included: the CSFSA 7th Test, the Gold Dance Test and the Free Dance Test with Peter Dunfield.
Turning down a solo with the Ice Follies at 19, Slavka pursued coaching to fund her medical studies. Her coaching career skyrocketed, and she emerged not only as a legendary figure skating coach but also as an innovative and ground breaking choreographer. Her technique, driven by her artistic eye and profound musicality was supported by her ingenious understanding of body mechanics and flowing movement. Yet, beyond skating and choreography, Slavka imparted invaluable life lessons to her students, nurturing exceptional individuals alongside exceptional skaters.
Her tenure of 17 years at the Wagon Wheel in Rockton, Illinois, saw her start and elevate the skating school into one of the world's premier training centers. Over her 70 plus year coaching career, Slavka coached luminaries like Janet Lynn (Olympic bronze medalist; 2 time World Champion Medalist and 5 time Senior Ladies US National Champion), 3-time U.S. champion Gordon McKellen, Didier Gailhauget and Kath Malmberg, The Shibutanis and Shepherd Clark. She also spent periods of time working with Scott Hamilton, John Curry, Tai Babilonia and Randi Gardner, Karen Kadavy, Nicole Bobek, and the entire French Olympic team amongst others. A humble genius, Slavka elevated the entire sport and art of figure skating.
Slavka went on to become a member of 6 World Teams and 2 Olympic Teams, a member of the US Figure Skating Hall of Fame, a member of the World Figure Sport Hall of Fame and a Member of the PSA Coaches Hall of Fame. However, her influence extended far beyond the rink, earning her recognition from the State of Connecticut for her over 70 year career as a coach for multiple Olympians and world champions all while being a mentor and role model in the community. Slavka's impact on the sport and her community was immeasurable.
Once labeled "the most female figure skating coach ever seen", Slavka turned heads not just with her keen sense of fashion and her natural beauty but with her vivacious personality, her deep intellect and her unexpected sense of humor.
Married to the two-time Olympic gold medalist Dick Button, Slavka was completely devoted to her family. She took a joyful pause from skating when her children, Emily and Edward were born. She returned to skating when they were older and taught for over 30 years in the New York City area at the Greenwich Skating Club, the Hickory Hill Skating Club, the Westchester Skating Academy and many other skating rinks in the New York area.
Slavka captivated all who knew her with her generosity and her joyous spirit. She uplifted and inspired those who knew her, leaving a legacy of warmth and kindness.
With her trademark declaration, "Living well is the best revenge," Slavka embraced life with zest and determination. Her ever-present sparkle and the skip in her step serve as a reminder of a life lived to the fullest.
Slavka is survived by her children, Edward and Emily Button, and her brother, Edward Kohout.
In lieu of flowers, tax deductible donations can be made to the Slavka Kohout Button Artistic Scholarship on the PS Foundation website or via check to: Professional Skaters Foundation, c/o FMC Ice Sports, 100 Schoosett Street #3, Pembroke, MA 02359
A celebration of life will be held at the Bohemian National Hall, located at: 321 East 73 Street, New York, New York, 10021 on Saturday, June 29th at 3:30 p.m.