Eugene R. Butler

Eugene Richard Butler, 83, of 441 Mohawk Trail, Shelburne, passed away in his home surrounded by his beloved family on October 19, 2016.  "Gene" was born November 2, 1932, to Richard and Anne Butler of Hinsdale, NH, and was the only son of four children.  He proudly served in the Navy during the Korean conflict on the USS Columbus CA-74, and was a true American Patriot.  Gene met the love of his life, Maureen, "Mickey", after serving in the Navy, and settled in Shelburne to raise their family of four daughters. 

Gene was a lifelong learner and a salt of the earth man with unparalleled common sense.  Those fortunate enough to know him could fully appreciate his humor and witt.  His craftsmanship as a carpenter and contractor was his life's work.  He was most comfortable when in his home, working in his barn, and caring for his property.  Gene took great pride in harvesting butternut and cherry trees from his land to create the beauty of his home.  His wood working knowledge was endless, and each family member has an individually hand crafted piece of furniture made specifically for them.
   
Gene was ahead of his time with a vision for alternative energy.  He was co-owner of "Energy Alternatives" in the 1980's, a local business that advocated energy conservation to include wind and solar farms that are still being developed throughout the nation today. 

Gene spent thirty years as the Shelburne representative with the Franklin County Technical School Committee, and was recognized as the longest serving member.  He took great pride in his contributions to the committee and brought a unique and forward thinking perspective. Additionally, he served in the local community as a member of the first established planning board of Shelburne, and was a member of the Open Space Committee. 

Gene loved learning about world events and understood the importance of culture.  Beyond his tour with the Navy, he and Mickey traveled to Europe, Brazil, throughout the western United States, and took many cruises with family and friends.  He and Mickey were snowbirds who spent the cold New England winters in Port Orange, FL.

Gene embraced life and was a man of endless interests. In years past, he belonged to the bowling league, square danced in town, and played bridge.  He loved polka music, playing checkers, and harvesting blueberries, blackberries and raspberries that he cultivated in his yard.  

Gene was an avid reader, with a particular interest in military history. His accumen in math was uncanny, and he made certain his children and grandchildren could figure out the square root of a number almost before they could count! He was sure to remind that the dictionary was a resource to be opened on a regular basis. Gene enjoyed the simple pleasure of gathering around the kitchen table or on a porch with a cup of coffee to debate politics, listen to anything that was on your mind, and often took this opportunity to encourage and share his practical hard school of knocks wisdom.  Gene's passion to help family and others achieve their life dreams through encouragement and pearls of wisdom gave him great purpose.  He inspired and took great pride in the accomplishments made by his children, grandchildren, and others who crossed his path.

Those who knew Gene might best describe him as a devout family man who was selflessly devoted with a tremendous work ethic.  A man who epitimized the most upstanding of qualities.  Gene was a treasure, and will be dearly missed by his family and friends.  

Gene leaves his wife Mickey of fifty nine years, daughters Karen Gould and her husband Larry of Shelburne, Judith Driscoll and her husband Robert of Spring Branch, TX, Beth Simmonds and her husband Timothy of Shelburne, and Melissa Davenport and her husband Chris of Shelburne.  Eight grandchildren; Morgan Grunwald (Doug), Tavish and Macrae Gould; Brandie Dore (Mark), Amy and Jeffrey Simmonds, Sean Driscoll, and Lauren Davenport.  He also leaves behind two great grandchildren, Landon Grunwald and Alexandra Dore.  One sister, Joan Soderberg of Framingham, MA, and several nieces and nephews.  Gene also leaves behind his cat, Allie, who added a lot of joy to his life!

Gene's family would like to thank the many caretakers that provided him care and comfort, particularly over the course of this past year.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to donate may contribute to the Shelburne Firefighters Association (Attention Rescue Squad), Shelburne, MA 01370 or to Dakin Animal Shelter, 163 Montague Road, Leverett, MA 01054.

Services are scheduled for 2:00 on Sunday, October 23rd, at the First Congregational Church of Shelburne.

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