Denis Whitehead Butler, 72, our beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away February 1, 2015 in Salt Lake City. He was born August 27, 1942 in Ogden, Utah to Ruth Whitehead Butler and Alma Stephens Butler. On September 9, 1965, he married his devoted wife, Emily JoAnne Dokos, in the Salt Lake Temple.
The oldest of 7 children, Denis attended Weber State University and graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor's degree in Architecture in 1969. He founded and operated his own architecture firm for many years before retiring in 2008. He worked on hundreds of projects for the LDS Church, literally building the kingdom of God on the earth. He also designed numerous government and office buildings and residences.
Denis looked for missionary work wherever he went, sharing the Gospel with everyone he met. He served an LDS mission to Helsinki, Finland from 1961 to 1964. A lifelong, devoted church member, he served in many callings including Bishop, High Councilman and Ward Mission Leader. His passions were his family, serving in the Church, traveling the world and being a friend to all.
Denis is survived by his wife and children, William Dokos (Anne) Butler, Jennifer (Derek) Gillette, Laura (Wade) Gundry, David Dokos (Jodi) Butler, Karen Butler, and Michael Dokos (Nicole) Butler, and 15 grandchildren.
A viewing will be held Friday, February 6 from 6-8 pm at Larkin Sunset Lawn (2350 E. 1300 S.). On Saturday, February 7, a viewing will be held from 9:30-10:45 am followed by funeral services at 11 am at the Monument Park 20th Ward (2795 E. Crestview Dr). Interment will follow the funeral at the Salt Lake City Cemetery (200 N Street).
