Leo Grant Buttars

Leo Grant Buttars passed away on May 17, 2025, after a long illness. Family and friends are very grateful for the time they were able to spend with him.
Leo was born on May 22, 1943, in Preston Idaho to Lyman Buttars and Beth Peterson Buttars. In his youth, his family moved several times throughout northern Utah, finally settling near Ogden, Utah where he graduated from Bonneville High School. Leo was a lifelong learner and took opportunities for formal education at Weber State and Brigham Young University.
Leo served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Toronto, Canada. He was a faithful member of the church with a deep understanding and love of the scriptures. His favorite calling was always Sunday school teacher.
In 1967 Leo was drafted into service with the U.S. military. He trained and served as a warrant officer helicopter pilot, being honorably discharged in 1969.
During this time Leo met Margaret Carson. They were married on October 28, 1968, in the Salt Lake temple. Over the following years they welcomed five children to their growing family: Bryan Shaffer, David Clayton, Scott Preston, Christy Lynn, and Brent Spencer.
The family eventually settled in Orem, Utah. Leo took a position as a part time sweeper at BYU while attending college there. From there he worked his way up to Administrator of Custodial Services, a position he held for over ten years until his retirement. He had a great impact mentoring many students throughout this time.
Leo always viewed life as an adventure – a challenging but fun experience. He loved to share his interests with those around him. He was a talented storyteller and teacher. He loved to express himself through art, painting, and intricate lifelike wire sculptures of trees. He left a lasting legacy of faith, learning and creativity.
Leo is preceded in death by his parents, Lyman Buttars and Beth Peterson and his stepmother, Patricia Buttars. He is the first of his siblings to pass and is remembered by John, Terry, Terral, Alana and Brad.
He is survived by his wife, Margaret Carson Buttars and his five children, Bryan Shaffer (Susan Allen), David Clayton (Angela Felt), Scott Preston, Christy Lynn (Joshua Arnold), and Brent Spencer. He also leaves behind sixteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Viewing and Services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 220 West 200 South Lehi, Utah.
Viewing – Tuesday, May 27, 2025, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm and Wednesday at 10:00 am.
Funeral Services – Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 11:00 am.
Graveside services and interment at the Lehi Cemetery will follow the funeral service. Military honors will be observed.