Michigan State Police Trooper Paul K. Butterfield II had a long history as a well-known and successful runner. However, he never ran from his duties protecting and serving the people of the state of Michigan. While on duty in Mason County on the evening of September 9, 2013, he initiated a routine traffic stop. A few moments later a passing motorist found Trooper Butterfield on the ground with a gunshot wound to the head. He was airlifted to a local hospital where he passed away from his injuries. He was 43 years old.
Trooper Paul K. Butterfield II Memorial Scholarship
Trooper Paul K. Butterfield II Memorial Scholarship
As news of his death spread, an outpouring of support from across the state, including memorial donations, streamed in to his family. After making contributions to the Humane Society and the Michigan State Police Troopers Association, his parents Paul and Patricia Butterfield, of Frankenmuth, wanted to create a permanent honor for their son.
The Trooper's father, Paul Butterfield Sr. passed away in May of 2014 but his wife continued to pursue their goal of finding a special way to keep their son's memory alive, and the Trooper Paul K. Butterfield II Scholarship Fund was established at the Frankenmuth Community Foundation. The scholarship is available to students from across the state who have a parent employed by the Michigan State Police organization.
A 1988 graduate of Bridgeport High School, Paul worked hard to become the Class A State Champion in cross country. He also ran track and cross country for the University of Tennessee, coached his running team while serving in the United States Army and was a defensive tactics instructor for the MSP. Trooper Butterfield began his career with the Michigan State Police in 1999 as a member of the 118th Trooper Recruit School. He served 11 years at the Manistee Post and was transferred to the Hart Post in 2011.
Paul Butterfield was a highly respected presence in his community. His friends describe him as a caring and compassionate man with great strength of character, honor and dedication to duty. He was committed to his fiancée; they were engaged to be married in the fall of 2014. He loved animals and volunteered at the local Humane Society. He rescued several of his cats and his dog. He was known for his warm and friendly smile and incredible sense of humor.
Download the Trooper Butterfield Scholarship Application (PDF file)
Please submit the completed application to:
Pat Butterfield,
318 Harvest Ln.,
Frankenmuth, MI 48734