Phillip L. "Phil" Butterfield , 74, passed away on January 8, 2026, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, North Dakota.

Phil proudly served 20 years in the United States Air Force, serving with honor, integrity, and pride. Following his military retirement, he continued working in various roles before finding his professional home at Retrax, where he built lasting relationships and took great pride in his work. He later retired for a second time.

In retirement, Phil enjoyed metal detecting, fly fishing, and, most of all, spending time with his family. Later in life, he rediscovered a long-held passion for astronomy and photography, often spending countless nights capturing images of the night sky.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Orianna (Robertson) Butterfield, and his siblings Patricia "Pat" Smith, Frederick "Fred" Butterfield, Michael Butterfield, and Thomas Butterfield.

He is survived by his four children: Phillip Butterfield Jr.; Bradley (Kacey) Leen; Barbara (Justin) Radke; and Melissa (Jacob) Kelsey. He is also survived by his grandchildren Alessandra, Bannon, and Ara Butterfield; Hunter Butterfield, Dominic and Kaeonna Radtke and Athena Johnson; Jordan Graves and Logan Kelsey, as well as two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his former daughter-in-law, Cassandra Butterfield, who remained close to him and held a special place in his life.

Phil's life was further enriched by the close friendships he cherished, including Joshua Parker, Jody Knoblocke, Adair Andersen, and Tosha Denault, whose companionship and loyalty meant a great deal to him.

Phil will be remembered as a lighthearted prankster with an infectious sense of humor, a man deeply passionate about his hobbies, and someone who delighted in teaching and sharing what he loved.

No Services Are Scheduled.
Interment: Fargo National Cemetery in the Spring of 2026.