GARY EDWIN BUTLER

1943 - 2025

EMMETT - Gary Edwin Butler, age 82, passed away on October 17, 2025. He and his twin brother, Larry, were born in Boise, Idaho on August 8, 1943, to John Edward Butler and Francis Ellen Butler.

Gary grew up in and around the Treasure Valley riding bikes and racing cars with his younger siblings throughout the foothills.

In 1964, he married Gail Fletcher and welcomed sons Danny in 1965 and Terry in 1967. Gary later married Joyce Hubbard in 1978 and gained stepson, Kyle Hubbard who Gary raised from the age of three. In 1984 Gary and Joyce welcomed a daughter, Kacie.

Gary worked at the Boise Cascade Mill in Horseshoe Bend for 33 years before its closure in 1998. Then he spent the next several years working at Plum Creek Timber Company in Meridian before retiring. Gary drove forklift and was a general mechanic, spending much of his career in the belly of various machine engines.

Affectionally known as Harley-Man, Gary spent most of his life on two wheels, riding his Harley-Davidson all over the U.S. He was a proud H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group) Member and even held the prestigious Iron Butt patch (an honor bestowed to riders covering more than 1,000 miles within 24 hours). He and his brothers Larry and Jack, and dear friend George Cuttlers, were inseparable and could often be found on their motorcycles, working in a shop, or doing some sort of construction project. It was rare for Gary to miss a Cruise Night or the Emmett Cherry Festival; he was a fixture within the community and loyal to this place he called home.

He was also known as Pepaw, as named by his first granddaughter Alexis. Pepaw lovingly spoiled his children and grandchildren alike. He was a friend to all, always willing to lend a helping hand. He-quite literally-would give the shirt off his back.

He is preceded in death by his mother and father, John and Ellen Butler; his twin brother, Larry LaFrainer; siblings William Kowalski, John Kowalski, Mary Carey, Donald Butler, Jack (Judy) Butler, and Ray Butler; and son, Danny Butler.

Gary is survived by his sister, May Bray; children, Terry Butler, Kyle Hubbard, and Kacie (Derek) Crowe; his grandchildren, Alexis (Colton) Doramus, Ethan Hubbard, Emilee Hubbard, Calvin Crowe and Levi Crowe; and his great-grandchildren Parker Doramus and Hunter Doramas; sisters-in-law, Connie LaFrainer and Rita Kowalski; girlfriend, Debbie Amyx; along with many nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones.

A tribute to Gary will be held on November 17, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Potter Funeral Chapel in Emmett, Idaho, followed by a toast to honor his wonderful life.