James M. Struble

It is with deepest respect and honor that we share the passing of James Martin Struble of Butler, New Jersey, who died peacefully in his sleep on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91. Known to everyone as “Butch,” he was truly larger than life – “a good man” who will be missed immensely by all those who had the gift of knowing him. He is survived by his two sons, Matthew and Mark, daughter-in-law Melanie, four grandchildren, Sydney, Ryan, Ian, and Amelia, who lovingly called him PopPop, and brother Roger.

James was born in Paterson, New Jersey on October 30, 1933. He was a lifelong resident of Butler, where his devotion to, and pride in, raising his family, surrounding himself with the dearest of friends, and commitment to his town and community were his greatest joys. After graduating from Butler High School in 1951, he joined the Marine Corps and sailed around the world on the Intrepid. Following his discharge, he met the love of his life Nancy. Side by side, they created a life together that was the true example of family, love, and faith.

James took great pride in his long-time career as a Postal Carrier for the Butler Post Office, as well as being a volunteer Firefighter with over 40 years of service to the Pequannock Engine and Hose. Following his retirement, he continued to serve the Butler community at St. Anthony of Padua Church. He was their right hand everything – there was nothing that Butch couldn’t fix. During Christmas or Easter, alongside his niece Nancy, he would decorate the church with such devotion and care. His home was a Christmas wonderland as well, often being highlighted in the local paper as the house to visit with the magical lights. However, the magic didn’t just stay on the outside. Christmas in the Struble home was a grand celebration of tradition, bringing neighbors together and family even closer.

It is difficult to capture the profound effect that Butch had and will forever have on everyone. His role as the true patriarch of his family and the love he effortlessly exuded to all those he knew are testaments to a man who truly lived a fulfilling life.

James is predeceased by his wife Nancy, and sisters, Edna and Carolyn.

Donations are welcomed to St. Anthony of Padua, 65 Bartholdi Ave., Butler, New Jersey.

Visitation will be from 4:00pm-8:00pm on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at the Morrison Etheridge Funeral Home, 86 Bartholdi Ave, Butler, NJ. A funeral mass will be offered at 10:00am on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at St. Anthony of Padua Church, Butler, New Jersey. Burial will immediately follow mass at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Butler, NJ.