Keith Butterfield

RAYMOND – Keith Butterfield graduated from Gorham High School in 1987 and Brandeis University in 1991. He spent two decades becoming the kind of salesperson who redefines the word. From lubricants to laser surgical systems, to oyster farming equipment, he never sold anything he didn’t fully understand or believe in. He prepared relentlessly, worked hard, and earned trust the right way. Clients called Keith because he was the most knowledgeable person they knew and he had their backs. His approach was measured and effective, grounded in a simple principle: if it helped his client, he was all in.

His final chapter in corporate America was highly successful, but it confirmed something important – it wasn’t where he belonged.

Years earlier, time on a houseboat in the Chesapeake Bay, observing oyster restoration, had stayed with him. When he stepped away from corporate life, he knew exactly where he was headed. He flew to New Zealand to study aquaculture technology, he returned as a U.S. representative of FlipFarm systems and built Butterfield Sea Farms on Casco Bay – a sustainable oyster farm rooted in environmental stewardship and doing tangible good. The farm is his legacy. He knew it, and he has left it in good hands.

Keith loved bringing family and friends onto the water. Nothing made him happier than sharing what he had built. The communities he energized – family, teammates, friends, and fellow co-op members – are as much a part of his legacy as the farm itself.

He lived on Crescent Lake, near the family camp where he grew up, surrounded by a steady rotation of family, friends, and anyone willing to waterski, play wiffle ball, king of the raft, or engage in a spirited discussion. Keith had a conveniently selective memory when it came to his wiffle ball record, but in nearly everything else, his mind was sharp and his wit sharper.

Keith was predeceased by his mom Suzanne. He is survived by his father, Philip; his siblings, Kirk, Karen, Kelly, Kathie, Krista, Karla, Kevin; and an amazing friend, Leigh; as well as an adoring group of nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind more admirers than he would ever have admitted – or perhaps even known.

A celebration of life will be held in August at the Sea Meadow Coop in Yarmouth.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support the working waterfront at http://www.seameadow.org.