Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
1970 - 2023
1970 - 2023
Obituary
Guest Book
Jonathan Butler
Nov. 28, 1970 - Mar. 17, 2023
LONGVIEW - Jonathan was born in Longview, Washington, son of David M. Butler and Janet M. (Reed) Butler.
He attended Castle Rock schools, graduating in 1989. He was an athlete, participating in sports throughout his high school years. In 1988 he was a member of the Castle Rock Rockets two state championship teams in baseball and football. In his growing up years he attended Castle Rock United Methodist Church, taking an active part in all programs for children and youth.
Jon graduated with an AA degree from LCC in 1991.
In 1994 he married Brenda Hargand. They divorced after eighteen years of marriage, but remained good friends. Jonathan was graced with the gift of creativity which was manifested in many different ways, including the written word and his music. He played trumpet, guitar and bass, and was a singer-songwriter for several different bands.
Jon liked to have fun, but in contrast to his playful spirit, he was also a deep thinker. In 1996 he graduated from Central Washington University with a BA in Philosophy. He later spent time at Harvard studying the History of Science.
There was a tender spot in Jonathan's heart for animals, and he dearly loved the pets he had throughout his life.
When it came to people, he was thoughtful, compassionate, and forgiving - a true follower of The Golden Rule.
Jonathan was preceded in death by his grandparents; his Dad, David (his soulmate); and his niece Charlotte Elise Butler, who adored him. He is survived by his Mom, Janet; his brother, Nathanael (whom he described as "his all time bestfriend"); Nelia Curtis, who brought him love and joy the last six and a half year of is life; many aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous dear friends.
Celebration of life will be Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Castle Rock United Methodist Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3 Entries
Bob Knetzger
June 12, 2023
I played music with Jon in the late 90´s up in Seattle. He was an inspired songwriter with a real flair for original country rock. He´d weave settings and stories into nice melodies and clever song structures. He took this musical fun quite seriously. He´d drive up to Seattle from Castle Rock for weekly rehearsals which gave him plenty of time to think...I remember one rehearsal where we didn´t even play one note. Jon paced and talked to the band about his vision and plan for the band and his music. I´m saddened to hear of his death but will always remember him and music. I´m extra glad to have recorded with him and have his songs as a lasting tribute. Condolences to his brother Nathaniel and family. Peace.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Kim (Taylor) Smith
March 31, 2023
Jon was a great guy and well liked for his talents during our school years. Prayers to his family and loved ones.
Chris Lien
March 31, 2023
Janet,
I remember Johathan and Jamie playing as kids. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Showing 1 - 3 of 3 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more