While I didn't know Frank Butler personally, I did meet him at a Catalina Rendevous in the late 80's on Catalina Island. At the time I had a 1983 Cataline 36, sail # 2 and Frank heard that the boat was there.  He asked if he could come aboard and of course I said yes. He noticed the boat didn't have a deck hold down rod from the deck to the mast and he asked if he could have that added (at no cost to me) at a local boatyard.  
First class act by a first class guy. Always remembered that when I bought my next boat, a Catalina 42.

I had the great pleasure of working for Mr. Butler recently, I am shocked at his passing and wish his wife and family my prayers.  I've met many thousands of people in my business activities none stand out more than Mr. Butler. While he was focused on cost at every measure Frank was always kind, honest and fair to me and everybody else, 
 I'm sure. He's a great example of high character and perseverance. My heart breaks knowing he's gone. God bless you Mr Butler 

I-met Frank at a Catalina rendezvous in Catalina. At that time I owned a Catalina 36, hull number 2. Frank asked if he could come aboard and when he was looking around he noticed a deck hold down brace was missing. Even tho the boat was over 10 years old at the time, he asked if I would allow him to install the brace at his expense. A few years later I bought a new C42. During the first haul out there were a few bottom blisters. He had the entire bottom of the boat redone with vinyl ester, no questions asked. A straight up honorable man that took pride in what he made. An inspiration to everyone. RIP

Very sorry to hear of Frank’s death. My condolences to his wife Jean and the rest oF the family.  Really enjoyed playing tennis with Frank he was very competitive and  a great doubles partner.  Also enjoyed his fun 4th of July parties. Frank was an innovative successful entrepreneur. He will be missed by those whose lives he has touched. Rest In Peace Frank.

So sorry to hear of Frank’s passing. He was always a bright spot at the Annapolis Boat Show back in the 80’s and 90’s when I was a dealer. And I will never forget his generosity when my son and I visited California on a college tour and he absolutely insisted on us spending a couple of days at his ski house.







Rest in peace.  You were always kind and a nice person.  Met you when you needed something ASAP and I personally brought the item to your office from Chatsworth, CA, and I would not take a cent for it and you argued with me, trying to pay me.  That was over 20 years ago.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Butler family for the loss of my friend Frank.  We shared many times together on the tennis court and at work.  I was proud to be associated with his remarkable character and  his joy for life.  He created a Company - Catalina Yachts that brought a product to the market at a reasonably price that was for all sail boat enthusiasts to enjoy.  The industry lost a great innovator and  forward thinker.   

OBITUARY

Frank Willis Butler Jr.

January 17, 1928 – November 15, 2020

Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks-Griffin Memorial Park, Mortuary & Crematory

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