Michael Butikofer

Michael Dale Butikofer, 65, of Rigby, Idaho, passed away December 17, 2015, at The Gardens of Rigby Assisted Living. Michael was born November 5, 1950, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Preston Hyrum Butikofer and Thelma Esther Young Butikofer. He grew up in Coltman, Idaho, on the East River Road. Michael graduated from Bonneville High School in 1970. At the age of 40, he returned to school at Ricks College where he earned an Associates Degree in Livestock Management and continued his education at Utah State University. In his career, Michael wore many hats mainly working in farming and ranching. If he would have had his desire, Michael would have had a thriving pig farm. His example encouraged his children to pursue higher education. On May 24, 1974, Michael married Julie Schneiter in Idaho Falls, Idaho. They were later sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple. To this union were born five children (Dale, Jessie, Danitra, McKala, and Tyler) who brought them great joy. On November 17, 1991, he married Margret "Maggie" Dekle in Mud Lake, Idaho. Their combined family included eight beautiful children. Michael and Maggie made their home in Lewisville, Idaho. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints his entire life. He served a mission in the Arizona Mission. His last calling in the church was as a teacher in the Primary of the Lewisville 1st Ward. He helped the children of Rigby Elementary School who had difficulties in reading. The children affectionately called him "Grandpa." He always enjoyed lifting and serving others. His greatest joy in life was to love and serve his family. Michael is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Maggie Butikofer of Rigby, ID; children, Michael Dale Butikofer II (Linsie) of Juneau, AK; Jessie "James" Butikofer (Susannah) of Mountain Home, ID; Danitra Blevin of Pocatello, ID; Tyler Butikofer of Salt Lake City, UT; Shela "Sis" Sermon of Idaho Falls, ID; Shawn Crane (Audrey) of Artesia, NM; and Scott Pope of Oklahoma City, OK; siblings, Steven Butikofer (Fran); Betty Jo Cupps; Kathie Havens (Eugene); Jill Hawkes (Warren); Teresa Krynicki (Jim); and Gregory Butikofer (Lisa); the mother of his children, Julie Briggs; 19 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Preston Hyrum Butikofer; mother, Thelma Esther Young Butikofer; brothers, Philip and Kevin Butikofer; daughter, McKala Marie Butikofer; and sister-in-law, Patricia "Smiley" Dekle. Our family would like to give special thanks to those who cared for Michael at The Gardens of Rigby and Encompass Hospice Care. Memorial services will be held later in the spring or summer of 2016. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Alpha-1 Foundation at www.alpha1.org or Foster Grandparents of Southeastern Idaho Organization P.O. Box 400 Blackfoot, ID 83221.

Memorial Services will be held