Memorial trees planted for:

Samuel George Butkovich

BUTKOVICH, Samuel George September 15, 1950 - June 20, 2025 Though the sun shone its brightest on the longest day of the year, our world dimmed as we bid farewell to our adored father. Left behind with broken hearts are his children: his best friend and confidante, Natasha; his sidekick and handler, Katrina; his political adversary and charming sales twin, Samanda; and his long-awaited gift of a son and protege, Drew. Also mourning his loss is Sam’s golf and travel buddy Derek, as well as Patrick, and Alexandria. His legacy will live on through his grandchildren - Mary, Jack, Sam, Scarlet, and Annie - who will always cherish their generous Grandpa. Sam will be deeply missed by his two brothers, Dave and Danny, as well as many cousins here and from across the river, especially Kathy and Bill Sutter. The Lucas Clan, whom Sam considered family, will miss him immensely - especially Mary Ann, who always remained connected to him through their shared love of their children. To know Sam was to call him a friend, and to call him a friend often meant believing you were HIS best friend… He had a rare gift for making others feel uniquely valued. While it’s impossible to name everyone, we want to especially thank those closest to him through the years: Timmy, Roger, Steve, Kim, Chuck, Geordie, Mario, Jim, and Brian, as well as his work colleagues, his golf and hockey buddies, and the Friday Marconi crew. He will also be greatly missed by Nadia and Amrit. Salesmanship came naturally to Sam. He was first inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of his grandmother Gladys, who owned Peters’ Grocery in the West End. Later, his charismatic mother, Doreen (“Dor”), ran the Bruce Street Corner Store and taught him the value of being a savvy but selfless business owner. Alongside his brothers, Sam enjoyed a mischievous childhood filled with shenanigans and never missed a chance to share his (often unbelievable) stories from growing up downtown. As a teen, Sam went on to attend just about every high school in town, working side jobs to fund his love of sharp clothes and sports cars. After starting a family, Sam turned his attention to sales. He first worked at Davis Clothing, and went on to open the Cat’s Meow Boutique with his friends, before ultimately finding his niche in real estate and appraisals. Sam took immense pride in being the local face of the RE/MAX Realty brand for 40 years, becoming a cornerstone of the business community. His knowledge of the city was legendary - he could tell you the history and value of nearly every building in town.To call him a pillar in the community would be an understatement - he was a true “Soo-lebrity”. Everyone recognized and respected our dad. He was an honest and true gentleman with a genuine soul. Our “Handsome Sam” was charming and classy. It wasn't unusual for our friends to crush on our dad, and we became accustomed to women blushing and swooning over his crooked smile and dry wit. Sam took pleasure in the simple things: he loved a round of golf, a skate with the boys, napping during Jeopardy, any type of ice cream, traveling, strumming his 12-string guitar, sun seeking, going for drives and wearing anything blue to “make his eyes pop”. He also had a passionate love/hate relationship with technology and most recently was a surprisingly loyal fan of ChatGPT. In the end, our father said that his greatest accomplishment was how deeply his life was intertwined with ours, both personally and professionally. He often told anyone who would listen how proud he was of us, of the life we shared, the work we did together and the bond we built as a family. His absence leaves an immeasurable void. Our lives and the lives of anyone privileged enough to know him are richer, fuller and better because of him. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to those who showed exceptional care and compassion. Thank you to Dr. Pearce and Sarah Dunlop, Dr. Tozer, Dr. Fera, the ER nurses (Olivia and Carly), Megan on 3C, and the dedicated Bayshore nursing team. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Tracy’s Dream, or a charity of your choice. A *Celebration of Life* will be held at Crimson Ridge Pavilion on July 4th, 2025, from 3 - 8pm - a fitting nod to Sam’s love for the USA. “And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make”

September 15, 1950 - June 20, 2025

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57 Trees have been planted in memory of Samuel Butkovich.

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Memorial Trees

The Schneider Family

July 05, 2025

The planting of 50 memorial trees in the honor of Samuel George Butkovich has been arranged by The Schneider Family. Plant a tree

We were very sad to hear of Samuel's passing. He was a great family and business man with lots of stories to tell. You're in our thoughts & prayers.

Sheri Minardi

July 02, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Samuel George Butkovich has been arranged by Sheri Minardi. Plant a tree

Samanda, Drew, Katrina and Natasha: Sending heartfelt sympathies for your loss... My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Das Kumar Family ( Days Inn & Suites)

June 29, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Samuel George Butkovich has been arranged by Das Kumar Family ( Days Inn & Suites). Plant a tree

Dear Sam,With deepest respect and heartfelt remembrance. Your spirit lives on in all who knew you.

Matthew Lucas

June 25, 2025

The planting of 5 memorial trees in the honor of Samuel George Butkovich has been arranged by Matthew Lucas. Plant a tree

We lost one of the most fabulous uncles. I'll never forget him as a genuine original - warm and effortlessly cool. He will be deeply missed.