Russell W. Butler

Russell Wayne Butler, 76, of Defiance, passed away on Monday morning, April 22, 2019 at his home in Defiance.  
  
He was born on June 4, 1942 to Russell and Flora (Doyle) Butler in Defiance, Ohio. Russell was a 1960 graduate of Oakwood High School. He proudly served our country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. On September 10, 1966 he married Judy (Stuckey) Butler, who resides in Defiance. 

Russell was a member of St. John United Church of Christ, AmVets #1991, UAW #211. He worked for several years as an electrician at General Motors until his retirement in 2004. He enjoyed volunteering at Auglaize Village. Russell loved to pass out Andies Candy, and see people smile. He will be sadly missed by his family and many good friends.
  
Russell is survived by his loving wife of  52 years, Judy Butler of Defiance, son, Steven (Lisa) Butler of San Jose, CA, and daughter, Beth  (Jim) Gebhart of Charlton, MA. He was a proud grandfather to three grandchildren, Sara, Maddie, and Joshua. He also leaves behind two brothers, Clyde "Bud" (Jeannie) Butler and  Merlin "Joe" (Sue) Butler, all of Defiance, and brother-in-law, Gene Yenser of Oakwood. 
  
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Nola Stoller, Norma Jean Phlipot, and Helen Yenser, and brother-in-law, Earl "Zeb" Phlipot.
  
Visitation will be held from 2-7 pm on Friday, April 26, 2019 at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A funeral service will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, April 27, 2019 at St. John United Church of Christ, with Rev. Jim Brehler officiating. Burial will take place after the luncheon at Riverside Cemetery, with graveside military rites accorded by VFW #3360.
  
Memorials are suggested to St. John United Church of Christ, CHP Defiance Hospice, or Fort Defiance Humane Society. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.
  

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