Ralph Butler (Bolivar)'s Obituary
Ralph A. Butler was born, alongside his identical twin Raymond, January 5, 1929 to Tom and Catherine Butler of rural Dunnegan, MO. Like so many, barefoot and bib-overalled , they were steeped in hard times and hard work. Having attended one room school houses like Plum Grove, it was at Humansville High School where he met, at 15 years old, Glendena Squibb his future wife of 45 years. Their son is Jim Butler of Springfield, MO.
The only time he left his beloved Ozarks, is when he was deployed to Korea, where he experienced intense combat and was awarded the Purple Heart. He returned to his new bride’s family farm, near Rondo, to begin its’ purchase. Her family arrived in the area, a half a mile away in 1838.
Despite drought, and other setbacks, he persevered on the land he never left until the day he died. He transformed a stressed farm into a showcase. Early on, the soy bean, corn, and hogs supplemented the dairy and beef cattle. He would serve area landowners by mowing, raking, and bailing hay and as well as extensive combining of fescue seed. He worked most decades, from 4:30 in the morning until after 9 at night. His skill set included building and repairing in all aspects of carpentry, farm machinery, automotive, electronics, welding and most any other practical skill. His work product was first rate. He believed the quality of a man’s work reflected on his character.
He was a member of the Rondo Baptist Church, Masonic Lodge, and the National Rifle Association. He also served on the MFA Board of Directors for Bolivar, Stockton, Weaubleau, and Lowry City, as well as the Mid-America Dairy Co-op and the Soil and Water District.
He liked quail hunting and fishing for bass. He had a soft spot for Blue Healer cattle dogs. He enjoyed old time country music and dancing. He admired John Wayne and laughed at Barney Fife. He was a steadfast supporter of Law Enforcement in their time of challenge. But he loved the American flag and he risked his life defending it. He among others, realized the greatness of this country and the goodness of it’s people and was proud to stand against any who would tear it down.
He was good to all he met, kind and charitable. He savored life’s simple pleasures and was of strong character. His memory will continue to warm the hearts
of those who knew him and will hear of him. He is survived by his wife, Cathy Butler of the home; son, Jim Butler; stepsons, Aaron and his wife Tara Routh, Jeremy and his wife Jennifer Routh, Nathan Routh and Lyndsy Gudde, Adam and his wife Mishala Routh, Andy Routh; grandchildren, Jackson, Tate, Dylan, Addison, Brayden and Mason Routh, and Brittany and Jacob Jennings; Great-grandchildren Greyson and Cam Jennings Funeral
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