Vladimir "Butch" Pernar

Vladimir “Butch” David Pernar, passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 6, 2021, at the family cabin on Big Balsam Lake in Bovey, Minnesota. He was 67. Butch graduated from Nashwauk-Keewatin High School in 1972 and enjoyed his first job at Pat’s Shell Station. After a brief but adventurous stint living in Chicago, he was hired at the National Steel Taconite Plant in Keewatin. On September 6, 1980, he married Michelle Bibeau of Nashwauk, embarking upon more than four decades together, a journey that blessed them with two daughters. Butch eventually moved his family to Hutchinson, Minnesota, in 1987 and began working at Hutchinson Technology Inc. His career eventually led him to an accomplished, 27-year tenure at 3M. A devoted family man, Butch was a loving father to his daughters, Nicole and Jenna (Kelly Beaton), and a wonderful grandfather to his grandchildren Marcus, Travis, Charlie and Quinn, who brought him boundless joy. He also leaves behind his sister, Marilyn (David Laine), many cousins, a niece and nephews, and his dearest friend, Dale Thronson. He was preceded in death by his father Milan Pernar, mother Margaret (Modich) Pernar, father-in-law Charles Bibeau, son-in-law Justin Swam, and close family friend Zdravko Madunic. A uniquely skilled tradesman, Butch could craft anything from a welding project to some of the most descriptive dad jokes ever heard. He lived to prank loved ones, and tell tall tales – often at his favorite restaurant, the Hutch Café. Butch will be laid to rest at Balsam Township Cemetery, and he will be missed immensely. Funeral services will be held 11 am Saturday, September 11, 2021 at St. Cecelia’s Catholic Church in Nashwauk. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the church. Arrangements are with the Dougherty Funeral Home of Hibbing.