It is with great sadness that I must inform the FIRST community of the passing of one of Team 122’s greatest and original mentors, Ansel Butterfield.
Ansel lived for improving the world around him all of his 81 year life.
A former NASA contractor, Ansel worked to make the Viking Mars Project a success , and among his many honors and awards, he recently was a Woodie Flowers Award recipient. He was absolutely tireless in his ability to inspire students, teachers, and other mentors all year long, and especially during our build season. We know that he is irreplaceable, and will forever be honored and very much missed by all of us who have worked and played alongside this great man.
Thank you for attaching the photo. It gives us a window into the spirit of 122 and of your precious mentor.
With respect during your time of sorrow,
Jane Young
648 recently had a member pass away, so we know how you feel. Now cherish what he brought to you and your team. Remember to honor him. I’m sorry for the loss, it sounds like he was of great influence to you and your team.
This is very sad news. May peace be with anyone who knew Mr. Butterfield, and especially to his family.
Ansel Butterfield won the Woodie Flowers Finalist Award at the 2004 VCU Regional. Here is a link to the winning essay. This gives us a glimpse into the impact Mr. Butterfield had on those who knew him.
Dave,
Thanks for letting us know of Ansel’s passing. A wonderful mentor who leaves such a lasting impression will be missed but not forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers to Team 122 and the family.
I and the rest of 116 are truly sorry for your loss. 122 has always been an amazing team and one of the finest in Virginia, and Ansel must have been a huge part of the sucess. We feel for you, and best of luck moving forwards.
Team 122 is one of the finest in VA. I’m truly sorry to hear about your loss.
The memory of Ansel will always be in our hearts. He lives with us in memory and will for evermore.
I can’t speak for the team…but as a member of 1610 I am very sorry for your loss. As a mentor i can really understand what an impact Ansel had for youre team. I did’nt know him…but remember seeing him at VCU…if he was’nt on the floor he’d be in the stands rooting for the team. He must have had a lot to teach as he was a WWII vet and that generation went through
a heck of a lot. If anyone knows someone that age…listen to them while you can and learn…they have a lot to say.
I and members of 176 are truely sorry to hear of your loss. Our prayers and thoughts go out to all of you in this time of sorrow. He sounded like a great person who influenced so many. Best of Luck in the future, but remember i’m sure he was proud of team 122 in the Newton final rounds.
Thanks, He was a man with a huge experience inventory of the last century and would always share it willingly, and he was so proud to be a member of FIRST and Team 122!!! Plus of course he was proud to be a Team 176 and Team 111 Alliance partner in the finals at Newton Field! Here is a picture of Ansel and Laurie afterwards!
I have been advised that you can visit Team 122’s site, http://team122.org/ and the Butterfield family can be reached with an electronic message in the blog area…
