Harold John Butler

PENOBSCOT - The beloved Harold John Butler peacefully went to be with the Lord on Monday April 27th, 2015, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Penobscot Maine. Harold was born on September 26, 1930 in Staten Island New York, the son of Harold A. and Julia Kalenta Butler, who predeceased him, along with sister, Helene Berg Tritchler.

Harold began his Navy career at a young age in 1947 and retired after 20 years in 1967. He shared many stories with his family and friends of his military travels from North Africa to Cuba. He met and married the love of his life, Jean, in 1971. He always said it was love at first sight. From there they started their life together in New Hampshire where he worked at Davidson Rubber for 10 years before moving to Penobscot Maine. He then worked at Maine Maritime Academy in Castine, Maine from 1978 until he retired in 1992. Harold was an avid golfer and poker player. He also enjoyed family gatherings, always watching everyone together. He cherished every moment spent with family; loving each and every one of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He knew what it was to enjoy and play with his children. He always took the time to teach, love, and advise. His positive and young heart was an inspiration to all. He also enjoyed deep sea fishing, surf casting, his gardens, and always keeping his lawn manicured.

Harold is survived by his loving wife of 44 years Jean, his children; Michael and wife Jane Butler of Sydney Maine, Dawna and husband Jeff Ashey of Orland Maine, James Butler and partner Beth Daniels of Ellsworth Maine. Also survived by grandchildren; Dylan Mitchell and fiancee Amber Fields of Presque Isle Maine, Heather Mitchell of Penobscot, Caleb Butler of Blue Hill Maine, and Carrissa Butler of Bangor Maine. Also survived by great-grandchildren Tommy, Drake, and Aubrey; who each had a special name for him, "Old Pa", "Opa", and "Grampy." Also very dear to Harold were his niece and nephew; Christopher Berg and Kittrine Kaelin and Carol Ferrante who preceded him.

The family would like to thank the doctors and staff of Blue Hill Family Medicine, Blue Hill Hospital, Eastern Maine Medical Center. A special thank you to Dr. Sophia Villanueva for her compassion and taking the time to spend with him. They would also like to express special thanks to Dr. Richard Hines of Blue Hill Family Medicine for his special care. The family would like to say a special thank you to all the friends and family for all of their support.

Per Harold's request, there will be a military graveside service, which will be announced at a later date. A celebration of life, that he wanted, at the Butler's residence on July 18. Harold requests in lieu of flowers to please send donations to The Wounded Warrior Project P.O. Box 758517 Topeka, KS, 66675