Ralph E. Butwin

Ralph E. Butwin, of Woodbury Heights, NJ passed away on November 10, 2025. He was 89.
Born in Plymouth, PA, Ralph grew up in South Philadelphia and attended St. Monica's Parish & elementary school. He graduated from SouthEast Catholic High School in 1954. Ralph honorably served on active duty in the United States Army from June 1955 - May 1957. He then continued his education at Temple & Drexel Universities. Ralph worked as a Professional Quality Engineer. One of the highlights of his career was the time he spent working at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, and most notably, for companies like the General Electric nuclear power division.
Ralph met his bride at a Notre Dame football game/train trip, from Philadelphia to Florida, and they were married for 61 years. He and Joan raised their family in Woodbury Heights, NJ, since 1967. Ralph was a devoted parishioner at St. Margaret's Church, where he volunteered as an usher and was a member of their Men's Club. He was a dedicated member of the Durning String Band from the 1950's to 1995. As a renowned tenor saxophone player, he also played the bari saxophone, Ralph often served as a member of the Board of Directors, and as high as President. Durning String Band's 1971 theme "Let's Have a Party" was accredited to him. He recently had fun attending the Durning String Band's 90th Anniversary Party, and then Joan's 90th Birthday Party. As a loving family member, he enjoyed kidding around with everyone.
Predeceased by his parents Martin and Anna (Kubik) Butwin, and siblings, Martin, Roberta and Anne, he is survived by his wife of 61 years, Joan (Matunis) Butwin; 3 sons and their spouses, Edward and Beth, Richard "Dick" and Maureen and Brian and Kristine; 4 grandchildren, Alex, Aiden, Helena and Elin.
Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Friday, November 14, 2025 from 6:00PM until 8:00PM at the McGuinness Funeral Home, 34 Hunter St., Woodbury, NJ 08086 and again on Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 9:00AM until 10:00AM at the Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00AM at Infant Jesus Parish at St. Margaret's Church, 3rd and Beech St., Woodbury Heights, NJ 08097. Interment with military honors will follow at Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Williamstown.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his memory can be made to Infant Jesus Parish at Parish Giving – Infant Jesus Parish