We Remember

BUTUK, John Alexander
March 26, 1941 — October 12, 2024
John Alexander Butuk, born March 26, 1941, in Fort William, ON passed away peacefully on October 12, 2024, with his wife, son, and daughter by his side in Kelowna, BC.
Born to John and Helen Butuk (née Pacaryniuk), John enjoyed playing many sports, including (in his youth) fastball for the Fort William Ukes. He graduated from Selkirk High School and began working at Thunder Bay Hydro in 1958 as a draftsman. He continued to take on roles of increasing responsibility, when he retired in 1995 he was the Director of Consumer Services. Later, in 1996, he was elected as a Hydro Commissioner.
John married the love of his life Gloria Furlotte in 1962, and they had two kids, David and Heather.
John lived life well. He gave back to his community as a member of the Knight of Pythias; a volunteer with the Housing and Urban Development Association of Canada (HUDAC); a member of the Canada Games Complex Members Advisory Committee; and he organized the Thunder Bay Sports Celebrity Dinner for many years in the 1990s.
While in Thunder Bay, John enjoyed working out at the Canada Games Complex, running and playing racquetball. But, the thing he enjoyed most was golf with his wife and dear friends at Chaples Golf Course and the Fort William Country Club. He always wanted to live on a golf course, so in 1998 he and Gloria moved to Shuswap Lakes Estates, Blind Bay, BC, where he was able to live his dream on the 13th hole. Subsequently, in 2016, they moved to Kelowna, BC, where they lived on the 10th hole of the Tower Ranch Golf Course, and where he served as a Marshall.
John’s family was the most important thing in his life. He was immensely proud of his kids and enjoyed visiting them and their families in the USA. John was blessed to be able to experience incredible things in his life. He watched his kids graduate from University and build successful lives of their own. He saw all 4 of his grandchildren get accepted and attend university. He saw his grandson Carter graduate from USD with a Bachelor’s of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience and a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from the University of Southern California (USC). He watched his granddaughter Bronwyn graduate from ICOM Medical School and get married. He travelled the world and made wonderful memories with Gloria. And, he attended 4 Superbowls as well as The Master’s Golf Tournament with his son.
John is survived by his wife, Gloria Butuk (nee Furlotte); son Dr. David Butuk (Yvette) of Meridian, ID; daughter Heather Butuk-Daglish (Andrew) of San Diego, CA; and grandchildren Carter Butuk, Bronwyn Butuk (Zach Weston), Annika Daglish, and Ronan Daglish. He was predeceased by his parents; brother Bill Butuk; and his dearest friends Jim and Betty McCauley of Thunder Bay – whom we are certain have saved a seat for him at the best table at the finest restaurant, with the best views.
If desired, in honour of John’s life, donations may be made to either the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk or the Canadian Cancer Society.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.
Gloria, our heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this sad time. This from your neighbours across the street. You greeted us with a welcome bottle of wine to the neighbourhood when we moved in last year. And of course we chatted about our common hometown of Thunder Bay. Yours and Johns zest for life was very evident. Wishing you strength during this sad time. We are here if ever you feel like a cup of coffee (or wine).
Martina and Larry
Gloria and family. We were saddened to hear of John’s passing. We have many fond memories of him when you lived next door.. Our deepest condolences to you and the family
Our deepest heartfelt sympathies to you, Gloria and your Family. John and I marshalled together for 3 years at the local golf course, I would always give John “the gears” over his beloved Toronto Maple Leafs, to honour John here is a picture of the Leaf Legends from 2015. God Bless you John.
Brad and Carol Kelly
Gloria and family
Sending our sincere condolences to you and the family. You both were so gracious to Ken and I during our days with TBay Hydro and City of Thunder Bay. Take care my friend. Hugs to you, the kids and the grandchildren.
My deepest sympathies to you Gloria and family. I will always remember John as a very kind and
thoughtful man. May you find comfort in your memories of a long an happy marriage.
Gloria, so sorry to read of John’s passing, We go back a long way before the Fort William Country Club as John’s brother Bill was in my grade at Drew School and the Butuk’s lived only 3 houses away from ours. John came from a lovely family and I am sure together you have followed their legacy. Undoubtedly your children and grandchildren will surround you with their love and support in the times ahead,
Gloria, David, Heather & families…
We are so very sorry for this tremendous loss. It has a long time since we all visited here in TbBay but your family is one of our favourites.. wish we could have had one more visit with John. It’s great that he was able to live his dream (family first of course) living on a golf course. I pass your old home weekly (visiting my 93 year old Aunt at Sister Maria Greco home) & I never fail to look right to the house & remember all the Butuks.
Know that we are thinking of you often, but especially now as you deal with the loss of John.
Much love D