Bernard (Bernie) Victor Butorka, 79, of Katy, Texas passed away Saturday, July 13, 2019 in Katy, Texas. He was born April 27, 1940, raised in Chicago, Illinois the son of the late Sammy and Marie Butorka (Bartoli).
Graduated from Chicago Vocational School, Chicago, Illinois and attended two Junior Colleges pursuing business and served as a member of the Army National Guard for 4 years. Bernie moved to Rockford, Illinois where his career lead to outside sales for over 30 year in Industrial Supplies, primarily grinding wheels. His expertise in grinding lead him to a published article in the local newspaper. Bernie & Lynnda were married December 4, 1976 and moved to Houston, Texas in January 1977. He loved selling and was awarded Salesman of the Year with Radiac Abrasives in 2001.
Bernie loved life, God, family and country. Up until the past couple of years, as he faced a number of health issues, he always maintained a positive attitude, had fun, and encouraged everyone around him to be positive and SMILE. He lived life to the fullest. He loved working out, watching the Houston Oilers, Houston Texans and Chicago Bears. Upon retirement Bernie worked as an elementary school crossing guard and substitute teacher. He loved the students and became “Mr. Smiley” to the students. Unable to know the names of every student most students were “George” and that name stuck with many even upon the last few days joking with his physical therapist. Bernie was a member of Second Baptist Church for 30 years and a member of the MC Gang at Memorial City Mall for a number of years. He helped the MC Gang with their Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Veteran’s Day events and made many friendships. He and his wife Lynnda made a trip of a lifetime in 2014 to Spain and Italy and created many fond memories.
Bernie is survived by his wife of 42 years, Lynnda (and their cat Abby), daughter Carrie Butorka DiPiazza (Jim) and Brian Butorka (Paula), the JOY of his life the past 5 years granddaughter Kaitlyn, sister Mary Lou Tengblad, sister-in-law Lori Petitt (Art), nephew Zach, niece Teryn Meisenbach, nephew Timmy Filafusi (Kathy), 2 great-nieces and 1 great-nephew, and special friends - the Ledet family, Rand and Nancy Churchill, John and Ruth White, Gary and Sandy Pearson, and John Anderson
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