Ferdinand (Ferd) Stephan Buttschardt

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Ferdinand (Ferd) Stephan Buttschardt

September 17, 1936 ~ April 22, 2018

Ferdinand (Ferd) Stephan Buttschardt, 81 years young, passed away unexpectedly April 22, 2018 at St. Joseph Villa.

Ferd was born September 17, 1936 in Biberach, Germany. As a child, he endured the tragedy of World War II, an experience that impacted his life in many profound ways. After earning an economics degree, Ferd immigrated to the United States in 1957 with his first wife, Joan, where he became a part of what was then the emerging technological field of computers. In 1972, Ferd married Diane Zagorski, née Lesner, and together they relocated to Utah, New Jersey, California, and back to Utah as Ferd’s career advanced. Ferd worked for Sperry Univac for 21 years, attaining the position of senior director, after which he held senior management and executive level positions with TTI, Martindale & Hubble, Citibank, and Zions Bank.

Ferd’s passions were his wife, family, skiing, and the mountains. Ferd shared his love of skiing with his family; his enthusiasm, instruction, and joy for the sport creating new generations of avid skiers. Ferd’s best ski buddy was his wife, Diane. Together they hit the slopes, sun or storm, for 45 years. This year they skied over 30 days.

Ferd, a two-time cancer survivor, was a true gentleman, family man, our emotional rock, and the precious gem of our family. He is survived by his wife, Diane; sister Didi; five children; 12 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

A funeral Mass was celebrated on May 5, 2018 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church.

Online condolences may be offered and a tribute video slideshow may be viewed at www.starksfuneral.com.