Roger Lee Butt

Roger Lee Butt, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully with his loving wife, of 70 years, by his side, on March 29, 2025, in Kirksville, Missouri, at the age of 92. He was born on June 16, 1932, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was married to Joan (Baumann) October 2, 1954 in Cedarburg Wisconsin. They enjoyed a happy and loving marriage for 70 years.

Roger dedicated 36 years of his professional life to Doerr Electric Corporation, where he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues. He also served as the Cedarburg Park Director and City Forester for 10 years, contributing significantly to the community he cherished. His commitment to public service extended beyond his career; he was a co-founder of the Cedar Creek Restoration Council and played an instrumental role in the Cedarburg Park Board for many years. Roger was a third generation member of the Cedarburg Volunteer Fire Department. From 1962 to 1995, Roger was the Director of the Cedarburg Civic Band, fostering a love for music in the community. He was an accomplished musician, having played the trumpet for the American Legion Peter Wollner Post 288 from 1948 to 2002 and performed with the Alte Kameraden German Band as well as being an original member of the Lake Shore Symphonic Band. He was an active member of the First Immanual Lutheran Church in Cedarburg and Faith Lutheran Church in Kirksville.

His passion for music was matched only by his love for fishing the many lakes and rivers of Wisconsin and active participation in various civic organizations. Alongside his beloved wife, he traveled extensively throughout the states and visited 26 different countries, creating lifelong memories together. After living in Cedarburg, on his beloved Cedar Creek, he and Joan moved in 2002 to Kirksville Missouri. There Roger was an active board member with the Garrett Lake Association.

Roger's loving and kind personality was a guiding force in his life. Known as a voice for the voiceless, he touched many lives with his compassion and generosity. He is survived by his devoted wife of 70 years, Joan (Bauman) Butt, and their loving family: son Pete (Georgia) Butt of High Springs, FL, son Dave (Pam) Butt of Farmington, MN, daughter Lori (Jason) Haxton of Greentop, MO, and son Bob (Carrie) Butt of Stevens Point, WI. Also mourning his departure are his cherished grandchildren: Thomas (Dawn) Butt, Brian (Sydney) Selvik, Ross Haxton, Laurel (Brian), Erik (Carly) Butt, and Ari (Britt) Bault, along with great-grandchildren Laikyn, Brooks, and Hollan. Also, surviving are brother in law and life long friend Larry (Janet) Baumann and nieces and nephews.

Roger is preceded in death by his parents.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at a visitation on April 4, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Playle-Rimer-Millard Family Funeral Chapel, located at 2100 E Shepherd Ave, Kirksville, MO. A funeral service will follow at the same location, starting at 5:00 PM. The family will have a private burial in Cedarburg, WI. Additionally, a Celebration of Life open to friends and family will be held on April 8, 2025,11:00 AM at the American Legion Peter Wollner Post 288, W57 N481 Hillbert Ave, Cedarburg, WI.

Roger Lee Butt's legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, as he leaves behind cherished memories and a profound impact on his communities.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff members at Northeast Regional Medical Center and The Pines Care Facility.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Cedarburg Civic Band, A.T. Still University Student Emergency Fund, or any charity of your choice.