William Robert Butler

William Robert Butler, age 87, of North East, PA passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025 at home.

He was born on January 4, 1938 in Harborcreek, PA to the late James "Shag" Grover and Lydia Bortner Butler.

William graduated Harborcreek High School and served 8 years in the United States Air Force. He was based in England while serving during the Korean War where he did body work and painted the airplanes. When he left the military, he found employment painting school classrooms in the Erie Area and as a side hustle he painted houses and cars. He moved to Arizona and became an emergency medical technician. He then worked at the power plant for Salt River Project where he retired in 1994. 

He was an avid hunter and angler. He also enjoyed camping, hiking, playing cards, going to the casino, and finding ways to make money. He loved dancing on Friday & Saturday nights with his wife. 

William was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Dorothy Lutey Butler; brothers, James, Jerry, and Richard; and sisters, Sally Page and Peggy Fortney.

He is survived by his sons, Gerald William Butler (Tonya) and Rick Baker (Donna); grandchildren, Jerry, Jason, Justin, Katelyn, Kyle, Jordyn, Carly, Kyle, Loni; and 18 great grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Friends and family may call at the William D. Elkin Funeral Home, 65 South Lake Street, North East on Sunday, January 4th, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:15 PM. The Celebration of Life Service will begin at 4:30 PM. Officiating the service is Pastor Michael Grove. A Military Service will follow. Please send condolences to elkinfh.com.

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