Robert Buttel

Buttel Robert W. Age 99, passed away from natural causes on April 20, 2023 at his home, in Providence, Rhode Island, surrounded by his loving family. Dr. Buttel was a scholar well known for his writing on poets Wallace Stevens, Thomas Kinsella, Seamus Heaney, and many others. Major publications include "The Making of Harmonium", "Wallace Stevens: A Celebration" (with Frank Doggett), and "Seamus Heaney". He received his B.A. from Williams College, and his M.A. and PhD from Columbia University. He spent most of his career teaching at Temple University in Philadelphia. Dr. Buttel was a multi-lettered athlete in high school and college, playing baseball, basketball, football, and crew. In 1942 he joined the armed forces, where he piloted a B-17 Flying Fortress, completing over 35 missions. He recently published a book about his WWII experience, "Flying into the Turbulence of War". He was also a volunteer fireman in his hometown of Plandome, New York, where he drove the fire truck. Dr. Buttel deeply loved his wife Helen Buttel, with whom he shared a marriage of 75 years. He leaves behind a son, Jeff Buttel, and his wife Cindy, as well as a granddaughter, Katie Matthews, her husband Thomas Matthews, and their children Caspar, Nova, and Milo. He also leaves his nieces Michelle Garcia, Tania Fowler, and his nephew David Garcia. Sadly he was predeceased by his son Steven, and his grandson Zachary. Dr. Buttel and Helen enjoyed living and teaching in Europe and the USA. They were also able to spend summers in their beloved beach cottage in Prince Edward Island, Canada. Throughout his life Dr. Buttel enjoyed reading, writing, and teaching poetry. At Laurelmead the poetry group became central in his life. He and his wife were film aficionados, with a wide circle of like minded friends; the Jewish Film Festival in Philadelphia was a major focus. Dr. Buttel gave food his enthusiastic and complete attention, whether it was a feast at a 3 star French restaurant , or a quick stop at a clam bar. Despite that he remained fit and attractive. Helen jokingly called him Roberto, after an exotic young woman who called him that flirtatiously. On May 1st, at 3 P.M., a Celebration of Life will be held at Laurelmead Cooperative at 355 Blackstone Blvd., Providence, RI, in the Odeon. The celebration will be followed by refreshments in the Great Room. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to a charity of your choice in Dr. Buttel's name.