Paul Edward Butler

Paul was born to Raymond and Rita Butler in Spalding, Wheeler County, Nebraska on April 5, 1934. He grew up on the family farm eventually enlisting in the Marine Corps on April 25, 1952 and serving in Korea from May 1, 1953 to August 3, 1954. Upon his return to the United States he served at Camp Pendleton, California until his honorable discharge on November 1, 1954. His military awards include the Navy Unit Commendation, Korean Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, Republic of Korea War Service Medal, and United Nations Service Medal.

He returned to Nebraska and on a chance meeting at a dance at the Spalding County Fair met Eileen Miller, the love of his life. After dating for a year Paul and Eileen were married on October 20, 1957. The newlyweds moved to California to start their new life and a family. The Lord blessed them with three children: Perry, Kerry, and Sherry. Paul worked for Standard Oil before starting a highly successful business, Paul’s Auto Service. He retired from his business in 1996 to spend time with his family, friends, and was especially proud of and involved in the lives of his grandchildren. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, running the dunes in his buggy, and the time spent with family at their second home on the Colorado River.

Paul was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, brother, inspiring role model, a patriot, and a genuine friend to many. A man true to his word, his handshake was his oath. Following a life well lived he is reunited with Eileen and has left this world a better place. His presence will be profoundly missed.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Eileen, and grandson Bradly Butler.

He is survived by:

Perry Butler - son (San Diego)

Lauren and Michael Brandon - granddaughter/grandson-in-law

Kerry and James Radtke - daughter/son-in-law (Ramona)

Joshua and Kiana Radtke - grandson/granddaughter-in-law

Nicholas Radtke - grandson

Sherry and Cliff Steagall III - daughter/son-in-law (Rancho San Diego)

Kylie Steagall - granddaughter

McKenzie Steagall - granddaughter

Phyllis Gonzales - sister (Escondido)