Bruce Edward Butler

Bruce Edward Butler, 80, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, in DeLand, Florida. Born on February 12, 1945, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Bruce lived a life marked by deep faith, tireless service, and creative passion.

Bruce pursued his education at Santa Barbara City College and Long Beach State before embarking on a long and successful career in the building industry. For many years he worked as a building contractor before transitioning into home design. His commitment to sustainability led him to earn the designation of Sustainable Home Professional. Among his proudest professional accomplishments was designing and constructing the first Net Zero home-an exceptionally energy-efficient residence-in Happy Valley, Oregon.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bruce was a man of many talents and interests. While still living in Oregon Bruce played the dobro in a bluegrass band. He wrote songs for the band and arranged bluegrass concerts with nationwide musicians. Twenty years ago, he used his writing skills to begin what would become the first of eighteen books. His literary work included fifteen Christian fiction titles and three nonfiction volumes. Writing became a meaningful extension of his faith and creativity.

Bruce also had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed kayaking, biking, and traveling with his beloved wife Karin. Their shared passion for nature led them to relocate from Oregon to Florida three years ago in search of sunshine and year-round outdoor adventures.

At the heart of Bruce's life was his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. For over 25 years, he served as a volunteer jail chaplain in Portland, Oregon. Each week he led church services or Bible studies in men's dormitories, offering spiritual guidance and support to those seeking transformation. Prior to this ministry, Bruce and Karin served together in both women's and coed prisons throughout Oregon.

In Florida, Bruce continued his spiritual journey alongside Karin at New Life Bible Church in Orange City. The couple recently became elders of the congregation-a role Bruce embraced with humility and joy. He especially cherished Wednesday night Bible studies and adult Sunday School classes where he could share insights and encourage others in their walk with Christ.

Bruce is survived by his devoted wife Karin Butler; sons Erich Garnica, Clay Butler, Zandy Butler, Boone Butler, Rory Butler, Rainier Butler; daughters Leela Robinson, Serene Pasa; grandchildren Ashley Corallo, Josiah Butler, Ethan Garnica, Torin Pasa, Luke Butler, Blake Butler, Savannah Pasa, Leighton Butler, and Brynlee Butler; sisters June Burgess, Florence Kenner, Emily Morton, and Clara Schwab.

He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Evelyn Butler; son Torin Butler; grandson Dylan Butler; brothers Charles Butler and Robert Butler.

Bruce's legacy is one of faithfulness-to God, to family, to service-and he leaves behind a powerful example of how one life can touch many others through love and dedication.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be held on August 8, 2025, from 06:00 PM to 08:00 PM at New Life Bible Church 342 N. Volusia Ave., Orange City, Florida.