Roger Dean Butler, 88 of The Villages, FL, passed away May 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family under the compassionate care of Lynwood Manor, Adrian, MI.
Roger was born June 21, 1936, in Tecumseh, MI, to Richard and Nina (Bird) Butler. He graduated from Tecumseh High School in 1954, marrying the love of his life Donna Fish on November 6, 1954.
Roger was employed by Tecumseh Products Company in the purchasing and materials department for 43 years, retiring in 1998. He and Donna then moved to The Villages, Florida for the next phase of their lives. Roger and Donna were members of the Tecumseh Jaycees and the Tecumseh Fan Club forming many lifelong friendships. They attended the Presbyterian and Baptist Churches in Tecumseh. He was a passionate Michigan football fan, having season passes for many years. He and Donna enjoyed hosting tailgates for their sons and grandchildren. Roger was an avid golfer, bowler, and bingo player, but cards became his favorite pastime as he excelled at euchre and cribbage. He loved teaching his children and grandchildren these family-oriented games, passing on to them a legacy that will live on for our future generations. Another passion was watching and following his boys and their children in sports and artistic endeavors.
Roger was an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was a true gentleman, with a wit and sense of humor that will be missed by all who knew him.
Roger is survived by his sister, Phyllis Vallie, his sons Randy (Pam) of Tipton, Rick (Laurel) of Peachtree City, GA, Jeff (Becky) of Sturgis, KY and Tim (Deborah) of Brentwood, TN. Grandchildren: Coty (Ryan), Kris, Erica (Josh), Nicholas (Kim), Nicole (Derrek), Michael (Elyse), Joseph, Hannah, and Emma, and eleven great-grandchildren. Roger was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Donna, his parents and a brother, Jerry.
Memorial services will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Purse & Son Funeral Home, Tecumseh, Michigan with Rev. Brian Jones officiating.
Interment will follow at Lenawee Hills Memorial Gardens, Tecumseh, Michigan. Everyone is invited, following the service, to attend a funeral luncheon in honor of Roger.
Visitation will also take place Saturday, June 21, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until time of service at Purse & Son Funeral Home, Tecumseh, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the American Diabetes Association.