Ernest (Butch) Latham

Ernest Lee "Butch" Latham, 68, of North Aurora, Illinois, passed away on January 25, 2025, after a courageous eight-year battle with colorectal cancer that metastasized to his lungs and eventually his brain. Butch fought with unwavering determination, continuing to work every day until he no longer could.

Born on September 11, 1956, in Aurora, Illinois, Butch spent his life in the area he called home. He dedicated 17 years to Grundfos, assembling wastewater treatment pumps-a job he truly loved. Prior to that, he spent 14 years bartending at the Little Red Schoolhouse in North Aurora, where he formed countless friendships and connections.

Butch is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Melanie (Horton/Glover) Latham of North Aurora; his son, Aaron Latham Sr.; two step-sons, Sean (Brandy) Glover of Marseilles, Illinois, and Shane Glover of Knoxville, Tennessee; three grandsons-Aaron Latham Jr. of North Aurora and Waylon and Wyatt Glover of Marseilles; two sisters-Cheryl Little of Henry, Illinois, and Linda Specht of North Aurora; as well as many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved cat Heather and numerous friends and co-workers who cherished him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Mary Latham; his mother-in-law, Joyce Horton; and two nieces, Kristy Specht and Lauren Ferguson.

From an early age, Butch had a passion for motorcycles. He also played guitar in a band with childhood friends right in his front yard. As time went on, he found joy in flying RC helicopters and drones. He took great pride in maintaining his lawn-mowing on his riding lawnmower-and caring for the family swimming pool. Above all else, Butch adored spending time with his grandsons.

Those who knew Butch will remember him as soft-spoken yet full of humor-a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. A perfectionist at heart, he approached life with dedication and care.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 29, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at VFW Batavia Post 1197 (645 S. River St., Batavia, IL 60510).

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Dr. Myong and the entire team at Rush/Copley Cancer Center; Dr. John Davine of Rush/Copley Physicians Group; Absolute Health Home Care; Suncrest Hospice; and the North Aurora Fire Department for their kindness during Butch's final days.

"Love you always and forever, Butch. Until we meet again."