Gerald Lee Butts

Gerald Lee “Jerry” Butts, age 67, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 in Parachute, Colorado. Jerry, born in Mitchell, South Dakota on December 12, 1956, was an accomplished photographer, avid golfer, and loving father.

Jerry was a freelance photographer who specialized in architectural and commercial photography. He served several years in the US Army, including time in Germany where he taught skiing and mountaineering. In 1979, he spent four years as a ski instructor in Breckenridge, Colorado. He studied photography at the Colorado Institute of Art.

Jerry made friends everywhere he went. He had a unique ability to bring people together in celebrations replete with good food, lively conversation, and strong drinks. Jerry relished preparing intricate dinners, a passion he passed along to his sons. He loved listening to John Hiatt and planting gardens full of color, particularly his favorite tiger lilies.

Jerry was most at peace on the golf course, and he spent his retirement rising before dawn to prep the green. He often said that if there was not a camera in his hand, you could find a golf club there. Jerry was also a member of the Professional Disc Golf Association and won several tournaments.

Jerry is survived by his two sons, Austin and Trenton, his sisters Carly and Janelle, and many loving extended family members and friends. He is predeceased by his parents, Herbert and Doris, and his brother Scott. In lieu of sending flowers, the family asks that you plant some in your garden in remembrance of Jerry.