Jason Buttino was born Aug. 21, 1974, in Buffalo, N.Y. He passed away unexpectedly on June 14, 2017, in Anacortes, due to natural causes involving his heart.
Jason, 42, is survived by his father Michael (Belinda) Buttino, his mother Patricia Stengel-Felger, his step-father Bruce Felger, his sister Sarah, half-brother Michael, half-sister Kristen, nephew Alex and numerous extended family members. He was dear to many people and his loss has been profoundly felt.
Jason took life in stride, and spent most of his childhood in Oak Harbor. He played high school football and was a force to reckon with on the field. Living on an island in the Pacific Northwest helped spawn a keen love for the outdoors, and he thoroughly enjoyed being a survivalist ‑‑ skills he acquired in Boy Scouts. He could often be found living off the grid up in the mountains where he was at peace.
Jason had an amazing heart, something he kept hidden from most people, as it clashed with the persona he attempted to portray. He possessed a strong desire to feel appreciated and helpful, and was loyal to a fault… quite possibly to his own detriment. He befriended people easily with his elaborate stories and off-color sense of humor. Jason was the life of the party and he loved to entertain and make people laugh.
Jason developed a strong passion for music and performing at an early age, and was trained in vocals, classical piano and drums. Jason studied vocals under the direction of David Kyle, known as “The Maestro” of the New York City Broadway, who also worked with Lane Staley and Chris Cornell. Jason became heavily involved in the Seattle music scene and performed with Rorschach Test (sharing the stage with NIN, Tool, Korn &Queensryche), RiverRed, Gruntruck, as well as performing on stage at the Warped Tour 2005, “Gorge at George” with the band Sledgeback. Jason was the founder of the Original Alice In Chains Tribute Band “Jar of Flies” (he played in the only version that was blessed by the remaining members of AIC).
A celebration of life will be held on Jason’s birthday, at 2 p.m., Aug. 21, at the amphitheater at Deception Pass State Park. This is also the same day the solar eclipse will occur — definitely fitting for Jason to go out like a rock star. A reception will follow with location to be announced
Please consider making a donation in Jason’s name to the Sanctuary at the Lake, 530 E. Highland Avenue, Chelan, WA 98816 or call via phone 1-800-233-0045.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Wallin Funeral Home. To share stories or leave condolences, please visit Jason’s Book of Memories page on the funeral home website at www.wallinfuneralhome.com
