Michael Butler

Michael “Mike” James Butler was born on January 13, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, the cherished son of George Butler and Effie Hilliard Butler. Mike was a delightful surprise to his siblings: Joseph, Martha (Byrne), Patricia (Lareau), Mary (Kirk), and Kathy (Rosingana). He peacefully passed away on October 26, 2024, surrounded by love, from complications of Parkinson's disease.

Mike proudly served his country in the Navy during the Vietnam era. He began his working life as an orderly at Grayling Mercy Hospital, where he met the love of his life, Kathy Waterman. The two married in 1967, shared 42 years together, and raised three children: Kevin, Shawn (Shawna), and Catie. He was truly blessed with three grandchildren: Brendon, Isabel and Isaac.

For over 30 years, Mike worked as an appliance technician with Sears. Beyond his professional life, he was deeply involved in his community, serving the Village of Roscommon and as a member of the board of directors that oversaw the construction and opening of the Roscommon Public Library, something he was extremely proud of.

Known for his quick wit and humor, his devout love of God, his terrible taste in movies, and his undeniable passion for pizza, steak, and ice cream, Mike brought joy and laughter to all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his wife Kathy, his parents George and Effie, his siblings Joe, Martha, Pat, and Mary, and his brothers-in-law Veryl Gulick, Thomas Kulczynski, and Delbert Waterman.

We will miss you, Junior Birdman. Your legacy of love and laughter will live on in all who knew you.