Namesake of George’s Ski World business at Marble Mountain base has died

He was 83.
The small business actually began as a venture to sell Christmas trees and worms in 1959. It eventually evolved to become more commonly known as George’s Fruit Stand, a veritable institution in its own right in the 1970s and ’80s as it became a popular spot for locals to go enjoy fresh fruit or an ice cream during the summer months.
Around 25 years ago, the business expanded to incorporate the needs of the growing downhill ski resort right next door. George’s Ski World offered ski apparel, equipment and repair services.
These days, its known as George’s Mountain Village and also offers chalet accommodations.
Town Coun. Claude Wilton is a longtime friend of Mr. Butt’s and remembers him opening the gas station five decades ago. He said Mr. Butt didn’t have much when he moved to western Newfoundland from Carbonear and put a lot of effort into providing for his family and making a name for himself.
“He was truly a pillar in our community,” said Wilton. “He started that business and worked hard to keep it going. A lot of young people from Steady Brook worked for him over the years before they went on to their own careers.”
Kevin St. George, who was involved in the early days of getting Marble Mountain operational as a ski hill, said Mr. Butt’s business was a most welcome complement to the activity on the slopes, especially in those early days.
“We were glad he was there,” said St. George. “The patrons of the hill liked the fact there was somewhere to go get a snack.”
With so much talk about evolving Marble Mountain into a four-season concern, George’s Mountain Village is one component that has already found its year-round niche. Mr. Butt’s family continues to be partly involved in the operations there.
“It’s still a thriving business 12 months of the year up there today,” said St. George.
A funeral service for Mr. Butt will take place at the Country Haven Funeral Chapel at 4 p.m. today, with visitation taking place from 3-4 p.m. and again from 5-7 p.m.