Verl George Butterfield

Verl George Butterfield, age 94, returned to his Heavenly Father on September 12, 2026.

Verl was born on February 8, 1932, to George Jefferson Butterfield and Edna Marie Naylor. He was raised in South Jordan on a small family farm and was the second of nine children.

Growing up, Verl learned the value of hard work and responsibility. His family maintained a large garden and raised pigs, chickens, and sheep. Along with his farm chores, Verl also had a paper route. These early experiences helped shape the hardworking and dedicated man he would become.

He cherished the memories of growing up with his siblings and loved sharing stories from his childhood, including swimming holes, shooting mice with BB guns, Halloween pranks, and his favorite pet goat.

From 1951 to 1955, Verl proudly served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He was stationed aboard the USS Cape Esperanza (CVE-88), an aircraft carrier, where he worked in the engine and boiler rooms.

On June 30, 1952, while home on leave, Verl married his beloved Marilyn May Beckstead. They made their home in Rose Park, where they were blessed with six children—two sons and four daughters. In December 1961, Verl and Marilyn were sealed as a family for eternity in the Salt Lake Temple.

In 2001, Marilyn became ill and passed away. Verl married Joan Cobb in 2012 whom he adored and cherished. He loved Joan’s family and felt deeply blessed to have gained additional family and friends.

Verl dedicated 35 years of his life to Kennecott Copper, where he worked as a journeyman welder. He took great pride in his work and in the many skills he developed throughout his life.

Verl believed that life was what you made it to be. He was a talented woodworker who enjoyed spending time in his shop, where he built beautiful kitchen cabinets and furniture for his home. He especially loved building birdhouses for family and friends. His yard and garden were always carefully tended and beautiful. He loved growing food and sharing the fruits of his labor with those around him.

One of Verl’s greatest joys was spending time outdoors. He loved fishing and hunting, and during the summer months, he could often be found fishing along the Provo River. These outings were especially meaningful because he loved sharing them with his family and creating lasting memories together.

Verl was deeply devoted to his faith. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and faithfully served in many callings, including a temple worker, in several bishoprics, on the high council, and with the Boy Scouts of America. His service reflected his genuine desire to serve the Lord and make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Above all, Verl cherished his family. His life was a testament to the importance of love, faith, hard work, service, and community. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and countless memories that will be treasured by all who knew him.

Verl was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Marilyn May Beckstead; his son, Glenn Butterfield; his daughter, Janet Major; his stepdaughter, Ireta Neumann; his grandson, David Lubbers; and his siblings, Ervin (Erla) Butterfield, Robert (Reah) Butterfield, Lola (Dick) Llewelyn, Hyrum (Bernice) Butterfield, Edna Mae (Denny) Welch, and Donald and Rulon Butterfield.

Verl is survived by his wife, Joan Cobb; his brother, Herschel (Sally) Butterfield; his children, Mike Major, Penny Lackey, Connie (Carey) Perkins, Susan (Kevan) Lubbers, Kay (Stan) Brady, and David (Amy) Butterfield; his stepsons, Howard (Jeannie) Cobb, Kevin (Terri) Cobb, and Lonnie (Paula) Cobb, Paul Sturzenegger; 23 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and extended family and countless friends who loved him dearly.

Funeral services will be held Friday, September 18, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Larkin Mortuary, 260 E. South Temple Street. A viewing will be held at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Salt Lake City Cemetery.

Those wishing to view the service via Zoom can click "Watch Service" or follow the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/5KjMAZ1VGuJF1Y2ssqen1_xziS1400T61PKSJjkyUbT9TXiL2pM5hYHhnk2dgMod.ga2uV0ZJNWvRBPUs?startTime=1789753336000