MADISON - Carla-Jo DiMartino Butterfield passed away on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the age of 82. She was born on October 16, 1943, in Madison, Wis., to Marjorie (Nelson) and Carl DiMartino.

Carla-Jo grew up in Madison, the oldest of four. She had an active childhood, often talking about growing up in Olin Park, her love of sports, and attending baseball games at Breese Stevens Field with her beloved grandpa, Hy Nelson.

Carla was a proud graduate of Central High School and went on to be the first in her family to attend college. She received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, followed by becoming the first woman to earn her master’s degree in speech pathology from WSU-Stevens Point (now UW-Stevens Point) in 1969. For over 35 years, she worked as a Speech and Language and Talented and Gifted teacher for the Madison School District.

While attending college, Carla met Craig Butterfield. They would court for many years before tying the knot on October 5, 1968. They honeymooned in the Smoky Mountains which would be visited over and over in the years to come, much to mom’s dismay who wanted to see the rest of the world.

Carla-Jo was a beloved and devoted mother to Chad Clyde, born in 1974, and Carri-Jo, born in 1978. There truly wasn’t anything she wouldn’t do for her kids.

Carla-Jo loved sports, roller coasters, traveling, especially with her daughter (Hawaii, New York City, Southwest, Smokey’s, Mexico), and spending time with family and friends. She was a free spirit, wildly independent, and was not afraid to speak her mind.

Carla-Jo is survived by her daughter, Carri-Jo; son-in-law, Jason; and grandsons, Braeden, Joe and Jaxson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Craig; son, Chad Butterfield; parents, Carl and Marjorie; sisters, Nancy DiMartino and beloved best friend, Marlene Rose; and brother, Carl Jr.

Mom’s final wishes were to be cremated and a private celebration of her life will be held at a later time.

I am forever grateful and beyond blessed to have known and loved my mom for my life and beyond. She was the most selfless, caring, and giving person I have ever known. You will be missed beyond measure but know your presence is all around. Love you first and second.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Carla-Jo DiMarino Butterfield

October 16, 1943 - February 02, 2026

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