Don R. Buttars

Donald Robert Buttars passed away peacefully in his Preston home in the early morning hours of Sunday, March 15, 2026.

Born August 31, 1951, in Logan, Utah, to Donald (Dee) and Letha Petersen Buttars, Don was the third of four children raised in the small farming community of Clarkston, Utah. He graduated from Sky View High in 1969 and attended Utah State University for a short time.

Cars were a big part of Don’s life. While working at a service station in Logan, he ordered a new ‘73 white Corvette. Because his foot was often a bit heavy on the gas, he got his fair share of speeding tickets and was even rumored to have participated in some street racing in and around Logan.

This love for the cars also carried into his professional life; after working at the station and dabbling in real estate, Don became a fixture in the car industry. He owned Logan Motor Company in the early 80’s and worked for several car dealerships throughout his career.

Because he was raised near the beautiful hills of Cache Valley, he developed a love for hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors. Autumn was his favorite time of year, and there was little he enjoyed more than hiking the hills with his shotgun and a dog in search of pheasants and other upland birds.

Don loved farming - especially the land near the Newton Reservoir. Farming that land was more than just work to him; it was a way of staying connected to a place where he found peace.

At the age of 40, Don was briefly married to Dawn Ann Kunz. In 2001, he met Cristy (Pierce) Squires, and they eventually married in American Fork, Utah, on August 18, 2012.

Although Don had no children of his own, Cristy’s four children were welcomed into his life: Nathan (Ashley) Squires, Aubrey Squires, Michael (Estee) Squires, and Brandon (Ashley) Squires. The 13 grandchildren who came along later brought out a tender side of him that was heartwarming to see.

Don is preceded in death by his parents; a sister and brother, DeAnn Savage and D. Chris Buttars; and his hunting dogs, including Tony, Bailey & Libby. He is survived by his wife, Cristy; a brother, Jeff (Debra) Buttars; his bonus children and grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service will be held in Clarkston, Utah.

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