Longtime resident of Dubois, Wyoming, William "Buck" Butkovich, passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 28, 2024.
William Butkovich, Jr. was born on January 22, 1948 to William Butkovich, Sr. and Mable Collene (Cooksey) Butkovich. Buck grew up in Dubois, graduating from Dubois High School in 1966. He attended the University of Wyoming and while at UW, he enrolled in the United States Air Force ROTC program. He graduated from UW with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Petroleum Engineering along with a commission in the United States Air Force.
Upon completion of his Air Force commitment, he received an honorable discharge and subsequently went to work for B.J. Hughs in the oil field, and after a period of time, moved back to Dubois. There he met Mary Josephine “MJ” Ayer and the couple married June 1, 1974. Buck then returned to the University of Wyoming, earning his teaching certificate. Moving back to Dubois, Buck began teaching math and was an assistant basketball coach for 15 years at the Dubois High School.
In June of 1993, Buck and MJ, along with Charlie and Cindy Brown, bought the Rustic Pine Tavern and operated it for the next 27 years. During this time Buck was involved in many civic organizations which included, The Dubois Snow Katers, served on the board of the Anderson Memorial Scholarship Fund, Dubois Volunteers, Inc., and the Dubois High School Reunion Committee.
Buck enjoyed hunting, fishing and snowmobiling as well as spending time with family and friends in the outdoors.
Survivors include his son, William D. “Will” Butkovich and his brother, Jim Butkovich both of Dubois.
Mr. Butkovich was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, MJ Butkovich and his parents, Bill and Collene Butkovich.
Memorials may be made to the Anderson Memorial Scholarship Fune, P.O. Box 519, Dubois, WY 82501 or accepted at Davis Funeral Home, 2203 West Main St., Riverton, WY 82501.
On-line condolence for Buck may be made at TheDavisFuneralHome.com
Arrangements are under the direction of Davis Funeral Home, Crematory, and Monuments.