Milton Clyde Butcher

Milton Clyde Butcher On November 12, 2010, Milton C. Butcher, 86, cherished husband, father, grandfather, cousin, uncle, friend, and lifelong Texan, slipped peacefully from this life into the next, surrounded by his loved ones. Mr. Butcher was born in Houston on June 14, 1924. His avid love of photography began at an early age and continued throughout his life. He had a penchant for black-and-white prints, which he processed in his own, self-constructed darkroom. He leaves behind an impressive gallery that will continue to adorn the homes of his surviving kin. As a young man, Mr. Butcher built and leased several barges on his own, growing a business that supported him and his family for many years. He was happiest when occupied with his many projects. He built several boats by hand, his proudest achievement being a twenty-three foot St. Pierre Dory with a diesel engine. After retiring from the barge business, Mr. Butcher, who had a knack for reclaiming and revitalizing unproductive land, took to the countryside and renovated an old farmhouse near Giddings, Texas. He lived there for over twenty years while developing the land and raising cattle, quarter horses, and coastal hay. He was a leader in ranching who was always glad to share his expertise with his neighbors. In 1994, he moved to Nixon, Texas, where he worked with architect Michael Imber to design a home that has been featured in three books and several magazines for its unique character and beauty. He loved his home and the surrounding land with all his heart. Mr. Butcher had a subtle, wry sense of humor and was fiercely independent. He was a skilled pilot and an avid hunter. He was a fighter who bravely met and overcame serious physical disabilities, including learning to walk again after surviving polio in his twenties. During a difficult time in his life, he experienced God's grace very profoundly and carried that experience with him through his remaining years. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly forty years, Gale Butcher; his son, John Butcher; his daughters, Betsy Whaling, Robin Gilmartin, Julie Pickard, Adrienne Butcher, and Carrie Butcher; his grandchildren, Penn Whaling, John Whaling, and Avery Butcher; his cousin, Zulma Butcher; and his niece, Lucy Gibbs, and nephew, Barry Leaton. He now resides at peace with his parents, Clyde and Ethel Butcher, and his sister and brother-in-law, Maxine and Ed Leaton. Memorial Service Thursday, November 18, 2010, 7:00 p.m. Porter Loring Chapel You are invited to sign the guestbook at www.porterloring.com Arrangements with Porter Loring 1101 McCullough (210) 227-8221 San Antonio, TX 78212