Dennis Butler

Dennis Henry Butler passed away on April 8, 2025, due to complications from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Born on November 22, 1940, in Murray, Utah, he was the son of Henry L. Butler and Vivienne D. Butler. Dennis spent his early years near the Old Mill, just below Butler Hill, where his ancestors were among the area's original settlers. He later moved to Murray with his parents, where he spent his childhood on Vine Street, across from HyLand Dairy, where his mother worked. His father worked at Sears and, after retiring, volunteered as a crossing guard. Dennis was deeply influenced by his parents' strong work ethic, which he instilled in his own children and grandchildren, leaving behind a lasting legacy of hard work and loyalty to family.
Dennis attended Arlington Elementary, Hillcrest Junior High, and Murray High School. At Murray High, he was a member of the track team, wrestling team, and football team, lettering in both football and wrestling. It was also in high school that he met his lifelong partner, Bonnie Nuffer. They married in 1958 and recently celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary on March 1, 2025.
Dennis and Bonnie spent their entire lives in Murray, where they raised their four children. Dennis built a successful career as a highly skilled brick mason and construction foreman. With his exceptional hands-on ability, remarkable math skills, and natural brilliance, he led numerous construction crews throughout his life. To support his growing family, he often worked out of state, dedicating himself fully to his trade. A proud and committed union member, Dennis earned a strong reputation and fair compensation for his expertise. In retirement, he was honored with pensions from two unions and recently celebrated a remarkable milestone-50 years of union membership.
Dennis was also an avid bowler throughout his adult life. He and Bonnie bowled on leagues together, and at one point, Dennis even bowled a perfect game. That achievement earned him a spot in a tournament and a trip to Washington, D.C. for a competition. It was a special experience for them, and they always remembered that trip fondly.
Dennis passed down his love for the outdoors to his sons, teaching them the art of fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking. That passion became a family tradition, and to this day, his whole family shares the same deep appreciation for nature. Dennis hunted all over Utah and fished in Canada and Alaska. He loved being a sportsman-an adventurer, explorer, wanderer, trekker, and roamer at heart.
As he and Bonnie got older, they enjoyed camping trips in their trailer, often accompanied by their beloved little dogs, Shadow and later, Teeka. Their furry companions went everywhere with them and were cherished members of the family. Because of Dennis's lifelong love for the outdoors, we, as a family, will always take a moment to honor him whenever we're out enjoying nature and spending time with our own families in the wilderness.
Dennis is survived by his wife of 67 years, Bonnie Butler; his children, Debbie Hall, Lori (Bob) Freeman, Scott Butler, and Gary (Jenny) Butler; 17 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren; his sister, Bonnie Lou Butler; and many other beloved extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts and uncles, and his grandson, Robert.
As a family, we will deeply miss his gruff nature, his no-nonsense attitude, his incredible knowledge of every dirt trail in Utah, his metal detecting adventures and the treasures he found and loved to share, and of course, his hilarious, sarcastic sense of humor.
You put up a great fight dad. You rest easy now and we'll see you on the other side. Until then, we'll watch for the signs in the great outdoors that we know you'll continue to send us. We love you.
Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at 11:00 am at Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary, 4760 S. State Street, Murray. A viewing will be held prior to services at Jenkins-Soffe at 10:00 am. Interment will take place at Murray City Cemetery.