Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

Dr. Kent Houck Butler

Kent Butler Obituary

Butler, Dr. Kent Houck ,a longtime Hollywood pediatrician passed away Thursday evening in his home surrounded by his family and close friends. He had been battling a rare form of Leukemia for many years while leading a very active and productive life until just recently. He was 69. Dr. Butler grew up in Tonawanda, NY with his beloved younger brothers and went to Hobart College on a basketball scholarship while lettering in three sports and maintaining excellent academic standings. He chose to dedicate his life to medicine and attended New York State University of Medicine in Albany under a government assisted military program, After graduating from medical school he did his internship and residency at Buffalo Children's Hospital and went on to become a Board Certified Pediatrician. Following the completion of his residency he became a commissioned officer in the United States Navy and was assigned to the Naval Base in Key West, FL in 1962. Upon his Honorable Discharge in 1965 he moved his growing family to Hollywood and staffed his first private practice, which later became Children's Medical Center, which now has branches in Pembroke Pines and Chapel Trail. He was a lifetime athlete, playing basketball, tennis and doing his beloved chin-ups at the local YMCA three times a week much to the chagrin of all the younger athletes. Dr. Butler is survived by his wife Gail, daughters Kim, Kris, Kelly and Kerri; sons Kent, Jr., Craig and Bob; grandchildren Christian, Kaylee and Cassidy; brothers Tommy and Craig. A Memorial Service will be held Monday, February 11, 2002, 2:00 PM at Hollywood Hills United Methodist Church; 400 N. 35th Avenue in Hollywood. The family requests donations be made in Dr. Butler's name to Hollywood Hills United Methodist Church. He loved his partners and his practice. He always said that he was "the luckiest guy in the world to get to do what he loved doing every day surrounded by people he loved." Arrangements by: PANCIERA MEMORIAL HOME 4200 Hollywood Blvd. Hollywood, FL 33021 954-989-9900 www.panciera.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Sun-Sentinel on Feb. 10, 2002.

Memories and Condolences
for Kent Butler

Sponsored by The Butler Family.

40 Entries

Jeanie Hayes

March 17, 2023

When we first met in 1968 I was a teen mom at Hollywood Memorial Hospital. It was a two story building back then. Three more children later I can honestly say that I only remember the name of the last OB/GYN that delivered my baby. However, they all had the best pediatrician on the planet, Dr. Kent H. Butler. Caring, kind, congenial, attentive, professional, knowledgeable, reassuring and had an adoring staff. The children got older and of course so did I.

We moved away from the area and I´ve recently returned. Now four children, fourteen grandchildren and four great grandchildren later I thought I´d have the chance to share that with that then bright eyed, great smile and somewhat reserved young doctor in a walk back down memory lane. Hoping to find a gingerly still bright eyed young at heart doc with a bit of snow on his roof.

I truly regret that I did not have the chance to show him how the starring role he played in our lives turned out. Rest well Doc ...rest well.

Pearl Halliday

August 31, 2021

I was a patient of Dr. Butler as a child growing up and I brought my firstborn son to him as well I loved him so much he took care of us when we were sick I remember one time I came into the office and my son was sick and I was sick as well and he gave me medicine a prescription to I think of him all the time I wish to God he was still here because now I have grandchildren and there was no other doctor quite like him

Diane Edmiston

March 2, 2021

Hard to believe it has been 19 years since you departed for your eternal home. Your were certainly one of a kind. A true gentlemen and friend in every sense of the word! As much as you are missed you have left a great legacy in the beautiful children and their families you created. The world is a better place for you having been here❤

SUSAN OUELLET

July 9, 2019

God Bless Dr. Butler. Yes he was a very gifted man! I still remember him saying to me as I was a new mom. " I am going to put you guys in my spare bedroom" lol. He was so heartwarming and just down to earth. Truley a one of a kind. My prayers go out to him and his family. You all were truley blessed! My Prayers always., Susan Ouellet

Vanessa Gilyard c/o 87

September 4, 2018

To Kent and Kerri : May your father Rest In Peace and no longer have pain.

Chad Butler

May 6, 2018

Rest In Peace, Uncle Kent! You still are and always will be remembered and missed!

Elizabeth Ward-Koresko

May 3, 2017

I just came across this while searching for Dr. Butler. Dr. Butler delivered me and I was his patient through high school. I was diagnosed with cancer at seventeen and he referred us to the best doctors. I am fortunate I had the same pediatrian throughout my childhood. I have fond memories of him and his patience through the many ear infections.

Donna Tolar Melogy

January 13, 2005

Kris, I was so sorry to learn today of your Dad's passing. I see it's been almost two years. He was such a neat man. He was always so nice to me and was always making me laugh. I know he was a great father to you as well. Please express my condolences to your mother and your brother and sisters. I hope this finds you well.

Donna Tolar Melogy

Joseph Roth

September 4, 2002

Dr. Kent was one of the first people to greet me into this world. I have many memories of visiting his office in Hollywood into my early teen years. As an adult I have strived to find a Pediatrician for my children that would emulate the vision I had of Dr.Kent as a child. As much as I disliked going to that office for fear it would lead to a shot, I always seemed to get over even the worst ailments thanks to Dr. Kent.

I know he left this impression on others and that will be his legacy.

Christopher Mikell

March 24, 2002

My deepest sympathy to the family of Dr.Butler. He cared for me and my family for many years and he meant so much to me since I was one of his patients. One memory that always reminds me of his energy for life and family was being in the employee break area as a kid with my mom and some of the nurses and seeing him come to work ready to go after playing tennis.

He always seemed to be happy at what he did and that made me comfortable as a patient. Dr. Butler was a rare find.

GOD bless the Butler family.

Douglas Mikell

February 26, 2002

As a former patient of Br. Butler and Allen, I am sadden to hear of his passing. On behalf of my entire family we will miss him dearly.

Sincerely, Doug Tom Sonja Jeff Chris and Tonja Mikell

KATHY MONAHAN

February 19, 2002

I FIRST MET DR. BUTLER WHEN HE TREATED MY FOUR YEAR, CLAIRE FOR ONE OF MANY EAR INFECTIONS. AS A NEW MOM I WAS FRIGHTENED AND UNSURE OF MYSELF. HE KIND OF INTIMIDATED ME WHEN HE TOLD ME, IN THAT GRUFF VOICE, "STOP WORRYING YOU'RE DOING FINE BUT DO YOU HAVE TO WORK? QUIT THAT JOB SO SHE DOESN'T HAVE TO GO TO DAY CARE." HE THEN TURNED TO MY 75 YEAR OLD MOTHER AND SAID "WHY CAN'T YOU TAKE CARE OF HER?" HE MEANT IT TOO! ANYWAY THAT WAS THE FIRST OF MANY VISITS WITH DR. B. AFTER I SAW WHAT A LOVING AND CARING MAN HE WAS HE ALWAYS MADE ME LAUGH ESPECIALLY WHEN HE WAS A LITTLE GRUMPY AND HE ALWAYS MADE SURE CLAIRE GOT ONE OF EACH COLOR OF LOLLIPOP TO SHOW HER HE CARED. WE WILL MISS HIM VERY MUCH. HE WAS A VERY UNIQUE AND GIFTED MAN. OUR CONDOLENCES TO THE ENTIRE BUTLER FAMILY BUT REST ASSURED YOUR HUSBAND AND FATHER TOUCHED THE LIVES OF PEOPLE IN WAYS YOU COULD NOT IMAGINE. PEACE.

Sid Hollander

February 18, 2002

My sadness and condolences go out to the Butler family. I was a close friend of the Butlers' many years ago but circumstances took us apart. Sadly, too far apart physically, but never far mentally.

A story about the doctor will give another view. I came to play bridge one evening as I had done many times. Kent Jr. was almost two Dr. Kent loved his beautiful girls but always longed for a boy, a ball player. As an educator he knew that I would be impressed with the following demonstration of his sons' prowess. He called to Kent and he came running. Pointing to a magazine picture he asked, "Kent what color is this?" With out hesitation Kent happily replied, "Red". I nearly fainted. The Doctor was explaining about genes and other such scientific things and then told me, "Watch this." while pointing to a green object. "Kent what color is THIS?" With the same joyous and youthful exuberance young Kent shouted "RED". And he received the same enthusiastic praise from his father. We chuckled and sat down to play.

Barb & Pat Callahan

February 18, 2002

We just found out today of Kent's passing. There are just so many memories from high school on. We have lost a good friend and we are sad. Please accept our most sincere condolences.

Lisa Crapella/Philbin

February 15, 2002

I am so sorry to hear about Dr. Butler. He was my sons doctor since birth.My son is now 15 years old. I am so, so saddened by such a great loss, and great man. He is in our prayers! Love, Lisa & Anthony Crapella

Becky Johnson

February 15, 2002

I am very saddened to hear about Dr. Butler and my deepest condolences go out to his family in the loss of such a wonderful person in their lives. Thank you for sharing Dr. Butler with all of us throughout the years. We always knew we were in the best of care.

Wishing you peace in the knowledge that the ripples of his life continue flow.

Gudrun DeL'Etoile

February 14, 2002

I was very saddened to hear that Dr. Butler had passed away. He was my youngest son, Ronalds, Doctor till he was 23 years old, and also my grandchildren, Erik, James and Brittany DeL'Etoile and Louann Phillips. He was a wonderful man and Doctor. We don't find people like that anymore. The deepest sympathy to all of his family.

Gail Butler

February 14, 2002

To friends of Dr. Butler-you were his family too. He loved his job and his patients. He knew you appreciated him because you told him and showed him. You are still doing so.

Thankyou,

Gail Butler

Melisa Iturria

February 13, 2002

I just wanted to express my sadness of hearing just today about Dr. Butler. He was a wonderful man and Dr. He was my doctor for 25 years and then became my son's dr. when he was born 6 and 1/2 years ago. I have fond memories of seeing him in the mall, just a few days before my son was born. He was standing there talking to my mom,saw me & kissed me,and rubbed my stomach. His parting words were I will see you soon. We moved four years ago, but I thought of him often. He was a great man and he will certainly be missed by many. You as the family should be so proud to call him dad.

Melisa Iturria

Kris Castille

February 13, 2002

Thankyou for all these nice words,especially the funny stories-they bring back a rush of wonderful memories. All of your names are blasts from the past. It's so nice to hear from you-all. My family and

I appreciate your kindness. We loved him and we'll miss him very much.

Kris Butler Castille

Kerri Butler

February 13, 2002

To all of the friends, and patients and loved ones of my father,

I wanted to thank you for all of your well wishes and heart felt messages. Your words are truly described what my father was about. It means so much to us all to know how much he was and still is loved and admired. We will miss him so very much. Thank you again, Kerri Butler

Susan Naylor

February 13, 2002

Dr. Butler is missed dearly by myself and my children. He brought me up at a young age and has done the same for my children. No one else will ever compare. Thank you for all your years of understanding.

We love you and will see you again someday. God Bless you all.

Susan,Keith,Chris and Cirsti.

BESS GREENWOOD

February 12, 2002

DR BUTLER WAS A GREAT MAN AND GREAT DOCTOR TO MY LITTLE GIRL SHANNON. WE WILL MISS VERY MUCH SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS HE WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR HEARTS.. MRS. B GREENWOOD AND SHANNON

Debbie-Sue (Malsam) Smith

February 12, 2002

As a babysitter for the Butler children, I remember when Kelly was just an infant and when Kent, Jr. was born, then Kerri. Many things have gone through my mind since learning of Dr. Butlers death. I fondly remember going on family vacations with the family, I smile when I think of "Susie" their dog walking to Hollywood Memorial to find her "daddy" and the doors opening up for her! All the children have grown up and I will forever cherish the friendship the Butler family and our family had for many, many years. God bless you all.

K Salver

February 12, 2002

My children saw Dr. Butler over the last 16 years when we wern't seeing Dr. Angella, Dr. Winick or Dr. Samuels. He was such a wonderful person and doctor. About 2 years ago he treated on of my children who was having a severe allergic attack. We could have gone to the hospital, but he took her in right away, treated her, sought advice from other doctors, & oiver 3 days treated her as if she were one of his own. He always had a smile on and he always made sure you understood the instructions for the treatment of your child. He possessed rare qualities for many doctors today, and we always left feeling very good about our visit to him. Thank you Butler family for sharing him with so many families for so many years. Our deepest condolences.

Karen Salver

don langberg

February 12, 2002

he was a freind and a neighbor who treated both my daughter's alexis and rayna since birth. my family will miss him and always rember the precious typewiter he never could due without. are prayers are with his family : the langbergs

Dick & Marge Malsam

February 11, 2002

What fond memories we shall always cherish regarding the Butler family.It is with great sadness to acknowledge the loss of a long time friend. Our lives have all been enriched knowing Kent.May his family find comfort in knowing so many others care.

Gill, Janet, Erik, James & Brittany DeL' Etoile

February 11, 2002

We will truly miss our Dr. Butler. We have loved and treasured all he has done for our family for over 20 years. His daughters, sons and family are in our prayers. We will all meet again one day and I look forward to that. We love and thank you all, for all that you have done and will do. The best always, The DeL' Etoile's

Carrie Cerrato

February 11, 2002

Our condolences to the Butler family. Dr. Butler was truly a one-of-a-kind, caring, FAMILY doctor - many times treating multiple members of our family at one visit. His wonderful smile and tremendous heart will truly be missed. The Cerrato family

Pam Woodcock

February 11, 2002

To the family of Dr. Butler,

I just wanted to thank you for sharing your husband and father. Throughout his lifetime as a doctor he was always true to his patients. I was his patient since birth, as well as my 3 children until we moved to Georgia. He always gave reassurance and advice. He loved his family and I know working with Kim had to be a gift for her. Please know he touched alot of people. My prayers are with you all.

Pam and David Woodcock

Natalie, Jesse and Emily

Pat Wysocki

February 11, 2002

To Gail & Family -

Our sincere sympathy on the passing of a husband, Dad & Grandpa, but to us - the most caring & best Dr. ever. He was always there with assistance & reassurance for myself, my three daughters & My four grandchildren. There will never be a Dr. any better.

Sincerely - Pat & Bob Wysocki, daughters Wendy, Peggy & Valerie, grandchildern Kirsti, Dylan, Samantha & Ricky.

pat lavolpe

February 11, 2002

I will deeply miss my childrens doctor, my grandchildrens doctor,but mostly my friend. There will never be a better doctor in our lives.He is very special

Marla Berman

February 11, 2002

To The Butler Family:

I was so saddened to learn of your dad's passing. I know that my family will miss him. He truly was a wonderful person and saved the was always there for me when my son Travis was so sick as in infant. I wish you peace and much comfort in this time of sorrow. With deepest sypmathy, Marla Berman

Heddy Pritchard

February 11, 2002

To the Butler Family,

Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of Dr. Kent Butler. He was a SUPERB doctor and a terrific person that will be greatly missed. Our prayers are with you all.

Sincerely,

Hedy Bell,

Heddy, David, David Jr., & Eric Pritchard

Bonnie, Ted, Heather & Holly Michaels

Tonya Pullich

February 10, 2002

Dear Kelly, Kimmy, Kris and the entire Butler family,

Please accept our most sincere condolences on the passing of your father. He was a wonderful man and a great Doctor. He will be truly missed. Our prayers are with you.

All our Love,

Will and Tonya (Duke) Pullich and

Brittany, Kyle and Chad Pollard

Mary Allen

February 10, 2002

I never knew Dr. Butler personally but my Father-in-law Dr. Marvin Allen always spoke very highly of him.My heart goes out to you for your loss

Glenda,Chris,Christopher, Brittany Haller

February 10, 2002

The Haller family has lost someone great to them. dr.Butler has been our family doctor for almost 15 years now. Hearing aout his death has peirced a hole in all of our heart.We send our love to his family and God bless.

Linda Brewer

February 10, 2002

I was deeply saddened to learn of Dr Butlers passing. For many years I took my daughters to him until they were just too old to be going to a pediatrician! He always made my daughters feel so at ease with him...he was a friend to us as well as our Doctor. He was a rare find for sure and will be deeply missed by many. With my deepest sympathy Linda Brewer

Lee, Paul and Kelly Edelstein

February 10, 2002

Paul, Kelly and I only knew Dr. Butler and his girls but to the entire family we send our sincere sympathy. You all did so much for us during our Kelly's hard times and for that we thank you all.

The Edelstein Family

Jim Shea

February 10, 2002

In loving memory of my favorite doctor and football dad ever.

I went to Dr. Butler's office my whole life until I was so old the new nurses asked me what my child's name was when I went in the office for my own appointments.

My heart goes out to his family and the world for losing such a fine man as he.

Jimmy Shea

Roswell, Ga

Showing 1 - 40 of 40 results