Eight Bells: Frank Butler

The sailing community lost a giant among the ranks of production boatbuilders. Frank Willis Butler, president and chief executive officer of Catalina Yachts, passed away November 15, 2020, in Westlake Village, California, due to unexpected complications from a recent illness. In making the announcement, Catalina said: “We extend our most heartfelt condolences and sympathy to Frank’s family. Our thoughts are with them at this most difficult time.”

A sailing icon and industry “kingspoke”, Butler introduced hundreds of thousands of people to sailing during his lifetime. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Butler have lost a dear friend and an inspiring mentor. Butler leaves behind a company that only he could have built, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of Catalina Yachts.