Charles L. Butland

INVENTOR, ENTREPRENEUR Charles L. Butland, of Tuscon, Arizona, died May 23, 2014. "Charlie" was born and educated in Amesbury, Massachusetts and was the son of the late Freeman and Mary (Wilson) Butland. He was predeceased by a brother, Donald and is survived by brothers, Freeman Butland of Nova Scotia, Robert Butland of Louisiana, their respective families and several nieces and nephews. Charlie graduated from Bridgton Academy and attended Boston University on a football scholarship. Due to the unexpected passing of his father, Charlie left college and returned to help around the home. Shortly thereafter he joined the Marines and was stationed in California. After leaving the service, Charlie launched his brilliant career as an inventor and entrepreneur. He developed several patents used for identifying fingerprints with DNA. He was further inspired by the first legal cases using DNA evidence, the O.J. Simpson trial. Charlie's DNA Taggant technology has led to the subsequent millions of uses of DNA markers for authentication, anti counterfeiting and tracking of art, commercial products and music. Some of his clients have included the Sydney Olympics, NFL, Mohammed Ali, Joseph Barbera and artist Thomas Kinkade. His company, DNA Technologies, and his patents, are still in use today. Later in life, Charlie was a featured speaker and educator regarding inventing and entrepreneurship. Charlie was an inspiration to all of us, a bon vivant, great storyteller, and will be missed by all. He wrote an inspirational book in 1999, "Charlie's Thoughts", still available on Amazon. A second book, his personal story, was recently finished and due for publication soon. A Memorial Service is planned for friends and family at the Highland Chapel of Paul C. Rogers & Sons Family Funeral Home, 2 Hillside Avenue, Amesbury on Friday, August 29, 2014 at 2 P.M. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Amesbury Trust, P.O. Box 351, Hampton, NH 03843. Online condolences may be made at paulcrogersandsons.com.