CHELLE "BEAR" BUTTS
FOREVER 28
Chelle "Bear" Butts was a shining star whose light illuminated even the darkest corners of her community. In a world that can often feel heavy, Chelle brought a rare joy, a unique spark that touched the lives of everyone she met. Whether through her jokes, her radiant smile, or her unwavering willingness to stand up for others, she made those around her feel seen, valued, and supported.
For those who knew her at the overdose prevention sites, Chelle wasn’t just a community member—she was a friend, a protector, and a source of inspiration. She had a way of knowing when someone was struggling and would show up with a kind word, a joke, or just her presence to remind you that you weren’t alone. Her resilience, compassion, and authenticity created ripples of change, showing others it was okay to ask for help and breaking down barriers with her warmth and humor.
Her loss is deeply felt, by the community members she uplifted daily but by everyone who had the privilege of experiencing her kindness. Her absence has left a void, yet her memory inspires those she left behind to carry forward her spirit of love and care. For her, they rise each day, working harder, connecting deeper, and finding strength in the laughter and light she brought to their lives.
September 14, 1994 – February 2, 2023
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
“I met her almost a year ago (it would have been a year in May). I work at the overdose prevention sites in the area and spent a lot of time around the camps she stayed at. There were so many times she’d have my back anytime people were screaming at me, or she’d come over just to chat and make me smile if she could tell I was having a bad day. She was an absolute shining star, especially being in the area we are. She could make tons of people smile just by being herself and showing people it’s okay to come ask for help and ‘chill with the fuzz,’ as they put it.
When the company I work for started out in that area, everyone hated us, thinking we’d be like most and just judge and yell at people. But people like her are exactly why I get up every morning and go in, even on days I don’t want to. Her light, her smile, and her jokes are missed every single day, not only by me but by every other coworker of mine that she got to know.
The loss of her made me step my game up, work more hours, and make sure to check in more with people one-on-one. I wish every single day I could have been working that night. I know we can’t change the past, or else easily the love we all share for her would bring her back. Since it can’t, it’ll give me and many others strength to keep working the job we’re in and keep connecting with community members like we have been.
I know it will hurt for a long time, but we’ll heal from this pain one day at a time for her, because one thing I do know is she hated seeing any of us sad, grumpy, or angry. So, when it’s hard, try thinking of the jokes she used to tell. It doesn’t always help, but it definitely does for me on bad days.” - MARCY ♥
