Dick Button, 93, passed away on July 21, 2024, in North Salem, New York. Born Richard Totten Button on July 18, 1929, in Englewood, New Jersey, he became one of the most influential figures in figure skating, known for his groundbreaking athletic achievements and later for his long career as a respected television commentator.

Button rose to prominence in the late 1940s and early 1950s, becoming the first American to win Olympic gold in figure skating and the first skater to land both a double Axel and a triple jump in competition. His innovative style and technical advancements helped reshape the sport and set new competitive standards. After retiring from competition, he transitioned into broadcasting, where his detailed analysis and distinctive voice made him a familiar presence during major skating events for decades.

He is remembered by his family, colleagues, and the many fans who valued his contributions to figure skating, his pioneering athleticism, and his enduring influence on the sport’s development.