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William Butler Obituary
William Thomas Butler
1948-2023
William Thomas Butler passed away surrounded by his loved ones on December 18, 2023 in Trinity, FL.
Bill Butler was born on August 2, 1948 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota to William Thomas Butler Sr. and Mildred Butler, Bill's life journey was marked by love, commitment, and a profound impact on those around him.
For 52 and a half years, Bill shared a deep and enduring love with his beloved wife, Mary Butler (Westlund). Together, they navigated life's highs and lows, raising two children, Claire and Todd. Claire was married to William Schaller and they had a daughter, Sarah Marie. She passed away in 2017, which caused great heartbreak in the family; but as a couple, they have continued on. The passing of their son Todd in 2020 added a layer of sorrow that only strengthened the bonds within the Butler family.
Bill's educational journey took him to the University of Minnesota Duluth before he bravely served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War, stationed in the Gulf of Tonkin, on the USS Hancock, an Aircraft Carrier. His dedication to service extended beyond the military; Bill spent a decade shaping young minds as a middle school teacher. A chapter of his life unfolded in Florida, where he transitioned into investment banking, leaving an indelible mark on the financial landscape. Bill wove threads of community service through his involvement with the Seven Springs Rotary Club, where he worked tirelessly for the annual Rodeo fundraiser. He chaired its committee in 2001 and was recognized for his work as a Paul Harris Fellow.
In the tapestry of his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his granddaughter, reading to her and treating her to French fries and chocolate milk. An avid traveler, he found solace and joy in exploring the
backroads of the Great Smokey Mountains of North Carolina, cherishing the beauty of the landscapes that mirrored the diverse chapters of his life.
As we bid farewell to William Thomas Butler, we remember a devoted husband, loving father, and a man of service and resilience. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched, leaving an imprint of enduring love, strength, and the warmth of shared memories.
Funeral arrangements took place in December.
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