Umberto Butera, a venerable soul who graced the world for 102 years, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026, at his residence in Boynton Beach, Florida. Born on March 4, 1924, in Decollatura, Calabria, Italy, to Pasquale and Feliciana Butera, Umberto lived a life marked by dedication to family, hard work, and an enduring love of the outdoors.

Umberto’s journey from his Italian roots to a cherished role in his community in the United States traces a path of resilience and devotion. On September 30, 1950, he united in marriage with Franceschina Ligotti, embarking together on a life filled with love and shared experiences. In 1954, Umberto, Franceschina, and their two daughters embarked from Italy with only one trunk, immigrating to Welland, Ontario, Canada. There, they spent six years rejoining Franceschina’s Canadian Ligotti family before moving to Danbury, Connecticut, in 1960, where they connected with the Butera families.

Umberto’s professional life was marked by steadfast commitment, having worked at Berol Corporation, formerly known as Eagle Pencil, until his retirement. Beyond his career, Umberto and Franceschina found joy in their travels across the country in their family RV, accompanied by their daughters, sons-in-law, and beloved dogs. These journeys reflected their adventurous spirit and close-knit family ties.

In 1995, embracing their affection for the warm climate and welcoming community, Umberto and Franceschina made Florida their home. Umberto’s love for the outdoors remained undiminished well into his later years; he enjoyed gardening, tending his lawn until age 93, and daily walks around his neighborhood into his nineties. He took special pleasure in making soppressata during Connecticut winters and most treasured spending time with his family.

Umberto is survived by his beloved wife of 75 years, Franceschina; two loving daughters, Deanna Repko and Maria Bostock; and his sons-in-law, James Repko and Lawrence Bostock. He is also survived by his siblings Peppino Butera, Louis Butera, Marietta Butera, and Victor Butera, as well as his in-laws Veneranda Mussari and Ada Buonocore, along with many nieces and nephews who cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his siblings Ralph Butera and Francesco Butera and many in-laws, leaving behind a legacy that honors the bonds of family and the richness of a life well-lived.

The family invites friends and loved ones to pay their respects during the visitation on June 18, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Palm Beach National Funeral Home & Chapel, located at 10055 Heritage Farms Road, Lake Worth, Florida 33449. The funeral service will follow from 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m., with burial taking place at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery, 10941 Southern Boulevard, Royal Palm Beach, Florida 33411, beginning at 2:45 p.m.

The Butera family extends their deepest gratitude to VITAS Hospice, particularly to Nurse Marie, Aide Robin, and Dr Chen, for their compassionate care over the past year.

Those who knew Umberto will remember a man of quiet strength, deep affection for his family, and a passionate appreciation for the simple joys of life. His memory will remain a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family suggests donations be made in Umberto’s memory to The American Heart Association or St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital