Benjamin Glen Butz

Benjamin G. Butz, 66, passed away peacefully at home in Columbia City, IN on the evening of June 1st, 2026, after extended illness. Born in Pierceton, Ben lived nearby most of his life except for a few years living in southern IL with his wife, Pam, and daughters. Ben later moved to Columbia City with family after his health declined.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Glen & Alice (Leary) Butz, his first wife & love of his life, Pamela Butz, and extended family members including a close cousin, Tim Campbell. Ben is survived by sisters Beth (Scott) Turner of Columbia City, Carol Esenwein of Bremen, IN and Kimberlee (Keith) Winnett of Fort Wayne, (step) daughters Erika Martin, Paula Prose and Sarah (Doug) Whitaker and their families, and sons Grayson, Addison and Mason Butz of Hoover, AL.

Many of Ben’s cosmetology clients became friends over his long career. He worked in sales and also built, owned and operated multiple area salons. He was an entrepreneur at heart who combined his role as the family BBQ Master with his mother’s Southern influence to open Grandpa Benny’s BBQ cart and catering which was enjoyed by many.

Ben had many hobbies he developed skill around including classic cars, motorcycles, hunting morel mushrooms, guitar/banjo music, drawing/drafting and art, welding and carpentry. He was an avid fisherman and was often joined by his best friend, Shep. Ben enjoyed family life and traveling with wife, Pam. Together they renovated their IL home, then built their IN home to share with family and their beloved dogs.

Ben’s life was regarded well by his extended family, including aunts/uncles, cousins, 3 nephews, 4 nieces and their families, who all share many fun memories with him. Ben was blessed later in life with his final pride and joy …three sons. Ben credited his faith, and his parents’ upbringing that helped him live life and face challenges that came. Ben is loved, already greatly missed, and will always be remembered.

Family and friends are invited to visit to honor Ben on Tuesday, June 9th from 2:00-3:00p at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapel in Warsaw. A memorial service is planned to celebrate Ben’s life immediately following, at 3:00p. The family will hold a later, private ash scattering ceremony.

Memorial donations may be made in Ben’s honor to the Indiana Nongame Wildlife Fund -see website: IN.gov, or the American Kidney Fund at: https://www.kidneyfund.org. McHatton-Sadler is honored to serve the family of Benjamin Butz, who thanks them. Many thanks are also extended to the professional and caring providers from Stillwater Hospice in Fort Wayne.