Dr. Arthur "Art" Byron Butterfield, a distinguished figure in veterinary medicine and academia, passed away on March 29, 2024, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, at the age of 92, after bravely fighting respiratory failure.
Born on August 13, 1931, in Flint, Michigan, to Hazel Arlome and John Stanley Butterfield, Art's journey was marked by resilience, service, and an unwavering commitment to his family.
He spent his formative years living with his parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents on the family farm in Gaines, Michigan. This time instilled in him a deep love for animals, sparking his aspiration to become a veterinarian. After Michigan State College asked Art to “Go pursue excellence elsewhere,” Art served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War (1951-1954), where he displayed valor aboard the USS Arneb, earning accolades including the National Defense Service Medal.
Upon returning to civilian life, Art pursued his academic aspirations with renewed vigor. Utilizing the GI Bill to complete his undergraduate and veterinary studies at Michigan State University, he graduated with a Doctor in Veterinary Medicine in 1960. His distinguished career began in private practice in Fayetteville, North Carolina before pursuing his PhD in surgery at Colorado State University, where he met his beloved wife, Pam.
Art's professional journey took him to esteemed institutions such as Louisiana State University, Georgetown University, and the University of Louisville where he applied his expertise in laboratory animal medicine and biomedical research. His contributions extended beyond academia, as evidenced by his leadership roles in organizations like the Academy of Surgical Research and the American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care. In 1996, Art was awarded the Distinguished Veterinary Alumnus Award from MSU.
Art's legacy extends far beyond his professional accomplishments. After retiring in 2001, Art and Pam left Louisville to enjoy the tranquility of Big Bay, Michigan, before settling in Colorado Springs in 2007, where Art continued to enrich his community by investing his time as a Sunday School teacher and leader at First Presbyterian Church, as he had in every congregation of which he was a member. Art worked well into his 80’s as a Starter-Marshal at the Broadmoor Golf Club, as well as volunteering at the Springs Rescue Mission in Colorado Springs. Art was also an avid supporter of Michigan State University and the Detroit Tigers and Lions. A fervent reader and letter writer, Art often sent handwritten correspondence and articles of interest to many until the end.
Beyond his professional achievements, when asked how Art wanted to be remembered, he said “I would like it to be known that I was a Christian, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather.” His profound impact on countless lives resonates through the memories of those he mentored and inspired.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Pamela; his children: Arthur Butterfield, David Butterfield, Kathleen Hinson, Carolyn (Tim Davenport) Butterfield, Shay (Don) Armstrong, Sarah (Michael) Lang, and Dana (Ben) Barton; his grandchildren: Paige Hinson, Tyler Hinson, Stephen Butterfield, Angelica (Colin) Watkins, Daniel (Hannah) Butterfield, Alana Butterfield, Rachel Butterfield, Tim Petritz, Quinlan Barton, Phebe Barton, Jasper Lang, and Gareth Lang; and his great-grandchildren: Spencer Herbert, Wyatt Watkins and Finn Watkins. He is preceded in death by his son, Michael, son-in-law, Eric Hinson, and grandson, Joel Petritz.
Art's memory will be honored at a Celebration of Life on Monday, April 22nd, at 2:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church in Colorado Springs, CO, where attendees are encouraged to wear green in tribute to his alma mater.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Art’s name to The Dr. Arthur B. and Mrs. Pamela D. Butterfield Endowment to Foster Appreciation for MSU and the CVM (https://givingto.msu.edu/gift/), ensuring that Art's passion for education and veterinary medicine continues to inspire future generations.
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