Don Gene Anthoney Butler, 79, Springfield, passed away peacefully in the arms of his beloved wife, Marlene, on Saturday, February 5, 2022.

He was born October 11, 1942 in Springfield, the son of Daniel H. Butler and Mildred E. Patten Butler.  Don married Marlene G. (Kern) Butler on August 31, 1990 in Springfield, MO.

He retired from the USN-Navy after 22 years of service and a rank of ADC E7, servicing VF-32 at NAS Oceana VA.  He received the National Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with Bronze Star, Vietnam Service Medal, Atlantic Fleet Battle Efficiency E, Admiral James H. Flately Memorial Award, Letter of Commendation and Letter of Appreciation.

Don will be remembered for his quick, dry wit that made friends laugh often.  He worked at Waddell's in Springfield and FASCO in Ozark.  He loved his country music, dirt car racing and grooming his yard!!!

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his uncle, Beech Patten, uncle, George Patten and an aunt, Lena Dull.

Don is survived by his wife, Marlene; sisters, Virginia Harris, Springfield and June Slack, CA; children, Richard Butler, TX, Donna Butler, FL, and Bonnie Butler, TX; step-son, Jason Joyner, VA; numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law, Carole, Patti and Margo; brother-in-law, Michael; and an aunt, Fern Patten, Buffalo and her children, Steven, Bryan and Teresa.

He will be greatly missed by all that loved him.

The family would like to send a special thanks to Cox Health at Home Hospice Team.

Graveside services with full military honors will be held at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery.  Memorial services will be held at a later date as well.  In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Don's name to your favorite Military organization.  Online condolences may be left at gormanscharpf.com.