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Kenneth Butler Obituary

Kenneth R. Butler

Des Moines

Celebration of life services for Mr. Kenneth R. Butler were held at 10:30am at Henderson's Funeral Home on Wednesday, January 3, 2013. Interment followed at the Iowa Veteran's Cemetery in Van Meter.

Mr. Butler was born June 12, 1925 in North English, Iowa to Benjamin and Effa Carmichael Butler. Mr. Butler was a WWII veteran who saw action at Omaha Beach and was wounded in the Battle of the Bulge and Bayeux. He was a member of the 5th Engineers Special Brigade where he served as a demolitions specialist.

Kenneth owned an automotive shop where he could fix anything. He restored old VW Bugs during the 60's and loved to remodel and flip houses. Kenneth was instrumental in the research and manufacturing of the first Bell Helicopters. Ken "went green" before it was fashionable. He planted trees and honored nature and taught his children to do the same. At the end of the day, Kenneth loved to bake. He was famous for his champaign cake and cookies.

Kenneth lost his first wife to a drunk driver after only seven months of marriage. He found love again and married Lucille Dunn in 1955.

On December 29, 2012, Ken passed away at the age of 87. He was preceded in death by his wife and several siblings.

Kenneth is survived by his children, Kathy Butler (Daniel) Klein, Susan (Erich) Lemke and Bill Butler; his brother, Ellsworth Butler and sister in law, Ruth Butler; four grandchildren and many friends.

Our family would like to extend a special thank you to Chuck Underwood for his friendship and support; the staff at the VA /Central Iowa Health Care System; the staff at Sunny View Care Center and the Hospice of Central Iowa for thier expert care of our father.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warriors or the VA Central Iowa Health Care systems.

Published by the Des Moines Register from Jan. 4 to Jan. 6, 2013.
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Kathy, I am so sorry to learn of the loss of your Dad. May he feel the peace from the release of his earthly body and burdens.
Kay Crawford

January 5, 2013

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Funeral services provided by:

ARNOLDS HIGHLAND PARK FUNERAL HOME - DES MOINES

3500 6TH AVE., Des Moines, IA 50313

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