[Dick Button, the most accomplished men’s figure skater in history, died at the age of 95. He was a two-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time world champion. Button was not only a great skater but also a pioneer in promoting the sport and its athletes.
As an entrepreneur and broadcaster, Button transformed figure skating into a showpiece of every Winter Olympics. He was the first American to win the men’s event at the Olympics and the first to win the prestigious Sullivan Award. Button was also the first figure skater to win a second gold medal at the Olympics, and he made history with the first triple jump in competition.
Button’s impact on the sport went beyond his own achievements. He was a mentor and promoter of figure skating, and his commentary on ABC’s “Wide World of Sports” helped to bring the sport to a wider audience. He was known for his frank and honest analysis of performances, and his commentary was often praised for its insight and humor.
Button’s death coincided with another tragedy in the skating world, the crash of an American Airlines flight that killed 14 people from the skating community. Button was a long-time member of the Skating Club of Boston and remained close to the club throughout his life. The club’s trophy room is named in his honor.
Button’s legacy extends beyond his own achievements and commentary. He provided opportunities for skaters to make money after their competitive careers and ran professional events that attracted top names in the sport. He was also a pioneer in figure skating broadcasting, creating an open and honest space where no topic or moment was off-limits.
Button’s death is a loss to the figure skating community, but his legacy will continue to inspire and influence the sport for generations to come.
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