INDIANAPOLIS — Butler University announced its previous mascot, Blue III, also known as "Trip," passed away Saturday.
The university made the announcement on social media that the 12-year-old bulldog passed after a "brief illness."
His former "Dawg Guy" Michael Kaltenmark posted, "Trip will long be remembered for his spirit and passion."
Trip served as Butler's mascot from 2013-2020. In that time, he gained a huge social media following, traveled with his favorite team, surprised student's with their acceptance letters and made an appearance in the Netflix show "Dogs."
He retired on May 31, 2020 from his mascot duties and became "Mascot Emeritus."
“I want to thank Michael Kaltenmark, his wife, Tiffany, and their sons Everett and Miles for pouring their love and time into Trip and the live-mascot program here at Butler. Butler’s live mascot program serves as the standard among other universities largely due to their efforts,” Butler president James Danko said.
His jersey and portrait will be displayed in the Atherton Union from April 8-14 for those who wish to pay tribute to Trip.