After more than 35 years of exceptional care, a true cornerstone of the University Orthopaedic Associates family has officially retired. Dr. Mark S. Butler wrapped up his final patient appointments on Thursday, June 18th. While he is already deeply missed by colleagues and patients alike, we are incredibly proud to celebrate his legendary career and wish him the absolute best in this next chapter.

If Dr. Butler was part of your care or your child’s care, you already know how rare he is. Over the course of his career, he made it a point to treat every patient as an active partner in their own health decisions. He didn’t just explain options; he made sure you truly understood them and felt confident moving forward. That kind of respect for patient autonomy isn’t something you forget.

As he stepped into retirement, Dr. Butler shared a heartfelt parting message with our community:

“To the many patients I have cared for at University Orthopaedic Associates over the last 36 years: There comes a time in life where change becomes inevitable. It has been my privilege to care for all the patients that have trusted me to assist in their orthopaedic recovery. I have full confidence that all of my partners will be able to continue your care at the highest level.

In the next chapter of my life, I am looking forward to increasing my grandfather duties and to the birth of my fourth granddaughter in a few weeks. I will continue to serve my community and state as a volunteer firefighter in Upper Makefield, and as a member of the New Jersey Task Force One Urban Search and Rescue Team.”

Dr. Butler spent his career building a legacy that extends well beyond the exam room. As a Clinical Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, he helped shape the next generation of surgeons. Since 2006, he has also volunteered as a trauma physician for New Jersey Task Force One, responding to disasters and emergencies when communities needed help most. He brought that same steadiness and commitment to every patient he treated at UOA.

The entire UOA family remains deeply grateful for everything Mark S. Butler, MD, has given to this practice and to the New Jersey community. His contributions are permanently woven into who we are.

For his patients, please know that your care remains in excellent hands. Our subspecialty-trained team is fully prepared to ensure a seamless transition and to carry on the high standard of orthopaedic care you’ve come to expect. If you have questions about your ongoing care plan or next steps, don’t hesitate to request an appointment with our team.

Dr. Butler, thank you for a lifetime of dedication. We wish you all the best.