David Edward Butler died peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, November 10, 2021. Dave was born on April 22, 1951 to Edward Butler and Maxine Radabaugh in Lima Ohio. He talked fondly of his school years with the Sisters of St. Ursula. The Sisters encouraged Dave to become a Priest, but instead he enlisted in the United States Navy where he served honorably for 10 years and attained the rank of Electronics Technician E-6. During this time he married Diane Donathan and they adopted a son, Brian Butler. Brian was a bright spot in Dave’s life giving him so much to be proud of. Dave provided for his family by working in the Telecommunications Business. In 2004 he remarried Jean Butler and gained a daughter, Amy and a son, Ryan.
Dave was a kind, decent, loving humble man who loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, traveling and having a bit of Irish now and then. He was so much more than words could ever say.
Surviving Dave are his wife, Jean Butler; son Brian Butler (Cleo); daughter, Amy Kincer (Daniel); son, Ryan Hattenback (Amanda); five heaven sent grandchildren (Tye, Luke, Rhett, Colton, Taya); sisters Darlene (Bob) Cramer, Annette (Troy) Cooper and John (Sheila) Butler; Aunt and Uncle, Dick and Mary Butler; Cousins Judee and Tom Canterbury, in laws, Lori and Skip Servas, Tom and Ginny Schwertner and so many other cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
There will be a private Celebration of Dave’s Life on Saturday, November 13, 2021. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Front Royal C-Cap (Congregational Community Action Project)
My thoughts, and prayers are with dear Jean and the entire family! Dave was a kind and loving man. He will be missed by many. R.I.P.
Dear Cousin Jean, A beautiful tribute to your sweet husband Dave’s life and his love of family and friends. Our hearts are heavy with sorrow and sadness for the loss of such a caring and loving husband and friend to you, and a father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to so many others. We know you have the love, support, and actual hugs of family and friends to help sustain you at this time. Please know we are showering you with support, love and hugs from afar and look forward to seeing you soon. Love to you and all relatives and friends who have been touched by this sudden loss of such a special man. We surely feel it and so enjoyed visiting and celebrating with you and Dave over the years, from your wedding day to our recent visit in D.C., and times in between. He will be greatly missed by all. May he rest in peace and may you find some comfort in the incredible memories you created together. Dave has left a lasting legacy and positive impact on all he encountered. Love always, Gail and Jerry
Dear Jeannie, Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. The few times we met Dave, we could tell you were soul mates. Just the way you both looked at each other.
A lot of people might tell you they know how you feel, but I do. When your uncle Jay passed away, I thought my life was over, but life goes on Thank God it does. But Dave will always be in your heart. Tom and I will be praying for you and your family Love Aunt Pat and Tom
Dearest Cuz Jean & lovely family,
We were saddened to hear the news of Daves passing on to eternal rest. We all had such great fun at your place at the reunion. It was the first time we had a chance to meet your man. Please know that we are praying for his repose and for God to heal you and your beautiful family. Take care.
Peace & Love,
Cuz Gwen & Jim, Jenna & Cody, Samantha, Trevor, Alex & Kilee
I was stationed with Dave at Great Lakes, Illinois in 1970 for Electronics Technician “A” School. From there we both went to a Naval Communications Station in Ethiopia for three years. After that, we both ended up in the Norfolk area for about a year. After that, I lost contact with Dave till many years later, when a group of folks from our station in Ethiopia set up a site on Facebook, and I have kept in contact with that group ever since. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. I have some great memories with Dave.