DONALD JOSEPH BUTLER, age 97, of Onsted, Michigan, passed away October 16, 2024 at home. Surrounded by his loving family under the care of Hospice of Lenawee. He was born January 6, 1927, in Franklin Township, Michigan, the son of Elvin and Zelma (Cook) Butler. On December 26, 1953 he married Virginia R. Russell in Tipton, Michigan. She survives.
Don was a resident of the Irish Hills area his entire life. He was lifelong farmer and retired from Tecumseh Products Company. He was a graduate of Onsted High School, Class of 1945. Don was a World War II Veteran, serving in the United States Army, where he was station in Italy.
In addition to his wife, Virginia, he is survived by daughters, Charline (John) O’Neill, Dawn Rodgers, and Stephanie (Robert) Whitney; and daughter-in-law, Tammy Butler, sons; Floyd (Linda Richard) Butler, and Tim (Lilian) Butler; adopted son David (Sheryl) Dowding; 30 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; 4 great great grandchildren; brother Richard (Rhea) Butlerand many nieces, nephews and special friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Howard Butler, and son-in-law, Everett Rodgers.
Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at Purse & Son Funeral Home, Tecumseh, MI with Rev. Jody Reithmiller and Rev. Rex Gutwein officiating. Interment will follow at Franklin Cemetery, Tipton, Michigan with military honors provided by Onsted American Legion Funeral Honors Team.
Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, October 21, 2024 at Purse & Son Funeral Home, Tecumseh, MI and 10:00 a.m. until time of service Tuesday at the funeral home.