APPLETON – Herbert Raymond Butler Sr. died March 18, 2011, at his home. He was born Aug. 9, 1922, in Appleton, son of Harry Morang and Clara J. Butler.
Herbert married Edna L. Tripp, Dec. 10, 1942. They were married for 61 years and she was truly the love of his life. Together they raised three wonderful sons, each of whom he was so very proud. He was a kind, gentle man who always had a bright smile and a twinkle in his eye. Herbert was drafted into the Army, Dec. 31, 1942, and proudly served his country for three years. Herbert had many jobs throughout the years, but his favorite was being a woodsman and working alongside his sons. When he was no longer able to work in the woods because of his health, he worked for Robbins Lumber in their cut-up shop until his retirement in 1984. Herb enjoyed working with wood building various items for his grandchildren, houses for his boys and the family camp on Lake St. George. Herbert and Edna also made Christmas wreaths each year for family and friends. He was also a builder and collector of clocks, and he proudly had more than 200 in his home. He was known for being the first to get his peas in the ground, a competition he had with many people.
Herbert was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Edna Butler; his mother, Clara J. Sweetland; and his two sons, Herbert R. Butler Jr. and Kenneth R. Butler. He is survived by his son, Lester W. Butler and his wife, Mary, of Seminole, Fla.; daughters-in-law, Elizabeth Butler and Olive Tinker; his grandchildren, Joseph J. Butler, Katherine Butler, Kenneth Butler and his wife, Pauline, Vicki Eugley and her husband, Michael, Joseph W. Butler, Kacy Fitzpatrick and her husband, Craig, Corrie Collins and her husband, Christopher; 10 great-grandchildren; and a “daughter,” Roni Hamm. Herbert also leaves a special friend, Annabell Turnbull of Appleton; and his two cats, Tiger and Snowball.
A celebration of life will be held 4-6 p.m. Wednesday at Crabiel-Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Ave., Belfast.