Charles E. Butler II

1947 - 2020

Charles Edward Butler II, known to most as Charlie, 73, Washington, formerly of St. Clair, departed this life Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2020, in Washington.

Charlie was born Nov. 3, 1947, in Pacific, the son of Charles Edward Butler I and wife Henrietta, nee Mindock. On May 17, 1969, he was united in marriage to Connie Sue Brown, and three children came to bless this union.

Charlie was a Christian and longtime member of St. Clare Catholic Church in St. Clair. Since his move to Washington, he attended Our Lady of Lourdes Church. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 4667, of St. Clair. He was proud to have served his country during the Vietnam War in the U.S. Army, entering Nov. 10, 1964, and receiving his honorable discharge Oct. 24, 1967.

Charlie furthered his education and received his bachelor's degree in finance and banking at the University of Wisconsin. He worked in the banking industry throughout his working years and served as president of Farmers and Merchants Bank in St. Clair for over 40 years. He also was a member and past president of the Missouri Independent Bankers Association. Charlie was very civicminded and was a member of many local organizations, including American Legion Post 347, V.F.W. Post 2482, charter member of Elks Lodge 2651, charter member of the St. Clair Jaycees and St. Clair Rotary Club, and member of the St. Clair Lions Club. He was honored to receive the St. Clair Citizen of the Year award.

Charlie enjoyed many hobbies and interests but was especially passionate about playing golf. He was a talented craftsman and did many woodworking projects at his home. He loved old cars and antiques, and enjoyed working in his yard. Since he semiretired, he and Connie enjoyed traveling and visiting family in other states. Nothing made him happier than the time he spent with his children, grandchildren and great-grandson. Charlie helped many in their financial endeavors and will be missed by many. His keen sense of humor is another trait that will never be forgotten.

Charlie is survived by his wife, Connie Butler, Washington; his son, Travis Butler and wife Dor-Lisa, Ewa Beach, Hawaii; his daughters, Tammy Trentmann and husband Kyle, Chamois, and Tiffany French and husband Bryan, St. Johns, Fla.; seven grandchildren, Lauren Quesenberry, Hillsboro, Samantha Short, Jacksonville, Fla., Brett Butler, Tempe, Ariz., Dakota Butler, Ewa Beach, Hawaii, Ian Johnson, New Haven, Isaac Trentmann, Chamois, and Lucas French, St. Johns, Fla.; one great-grandson, Brayson King, Hillsboro; one stepsister, Donna Petrini and husband Jeff, St. Clair; brothers- and sisters-in-law; nieces; nephews; great- and great-great-nieces and -nephews; cousins; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles I and Henrietta Butler, and three siblings, Ronald and William Butler and Mary Moss.

Due to COVID-19, private visitation was held at Russell Colonial Funeral Home, St. Clair. A private funeral Mass was held at St. Clare Catholic Church, St. Clair, with the Rev. Eric Kunz and the Rev. Bob Knight officiating.

Interment, with full military honors, was in St. Francis Borgia Cemetery, Washington.

Memorials may be made to the St. Clair R-13 School Golf Scholarship Fund.

The Butler family was served by Russell Colonial Funeral Home, St. Clair.