Edward Roland Butikofer

The family of Edward Butikofer is sad to announce his passing on January 21, 2024, at the age of 93. Survived by his loving wife Betty Higgins and his brother René (Elaine). Father of David, Jean (Phil), Janice, Angela (Ken), Susan (Karim), and Tony. Foster father of Wayne (Deanna). Grandfather of Brandi (John), Eric (Veronica), Sarah (Ryan), Rene (Odile), Hugh (Jess), Dave, Jessica (D’Arcy), Charles (Hanora), Tonya (Brian), Candice (Matthew), and Wayne Jr. (Samantha). Great grandfather of Jeremy, Elyse, Penelope, Paisley, George, Wyatt, Jackson, Maxwell and Alistair. Predeceased by his parents Edwin and Marie, his first wife Mary Mueller, grandsons Thomas and Michael, and son-in-law David.

Ed was born in Switzerland on March 5, 1930. His family moved to Canada in 1937, settling on a small farm in Glanford Township between Mount Hope and Caledonia. He learned English quickly, but quit school at age 12 to work the farm. In 1946 he was hired at the Gypsum, Lime and Alabastine (later Domtar) mine and plant in Caledonia. In 1954 he helped found the Gypsum Workers Credit Union, serving as treasurer with the help of his wife Mary. It became the Caledonia Community Credit Union in 1967, with Ed as its first manager. He became a pioneer in computerized banking, establishing a firm in 1980 that sold systems across North America. While doing other jobs, he and his family built a retirement house north of Huntsville on the Little East River, and they were active in the community. Mary died in 2006, and Ed married Betty in 2010. Ed was known for his love of fishing, camping, music, gardening, woodworking and chopping firewood. He never tired of reading and learning.

His family thanks the staff at Country Moments Retirement Home and Fairvern Long-Term Care for their support of Ed and Betty. As per Ed’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral. Cremation entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home. A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations in Ed’s memory can be made to TVO (TV Ontario) or a charity of your choice.