Jeffrey David Buttrum

Jeffrey David Buttrum passed away surrounded by his family on August 8th, 2024. He grew up in a loving home on Indianapolis’s Northeast side. As a young boy he enjoyed playing basketball, pitching for his little league baseball team, and had a regular paper route. His love of nature and all creatures big and small led him to discover his beloved pet crawdad, Bulldozer, in a neighborhood ditch. According to him, Bulldozer was so large that he could not turn around in a 10 gallon tank.

After receiving an undergrad degree in Biology, and a dental degree at Indiana University, Jeff decided to specialize in oral surgery. He loved seeing patients, and was known for his expert delivery of care, his compassion, and his wicked sense of humor.

In his free time, he enjoyed spending time with family. Summers at the lakehouse included board games, fishing, birdwatching, and nature walks through the woods. He particularly loved spending time with his kids. His creative imagination and playful spirit made every day more fun for us all. In his later years, Jeff took up auto racing in his Spec Miata, which he enjoyed immensely. He also worked tirelessly to better the lives of others by volunteering at the Gennesaret Clinic, going on mission trips with Doctors Without Borders, and delivering meals for Second Helpings and Meals on Wheels.

Jeff was loved and cherished by his family. We will miss him, as will many of his friends and colleagues.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Jean, his children, Ross and Emily, his mother, Verda Marchessault, and his stepfather, Paul Marchessault. He is also survived by his sister, Julie Evans, his stepbrothers, Jeff and Marcus Marchessault, his stepsister Michelle Marchessault, and his many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Jeff was preceded in death by his father, Carol, and his brother, Robin.

Jeff's Celebration of Life will be held at the Ritz Charles in Carmel on Sunday afternoon, September 15th.

Arrival at 1:30, followed by seating for his Celebration of Life at 2pm, and reception to follow.

Please bring your fun Jeff stories so we can share memories.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.