James Henry Butler

Jim graduated from Wyandotte High School in 1965. He lettered in swimming and diving and played football. He was also a member of the Student Council that initiated new and conservative dress codes. Jim was most proud to be an avid Boy Scout. During his time serving in the Boy Scouts, Jim excelled in excellence. He persevered for his Eagle Scout Award and was a member of the Order of the Arrow. In 1965, Jim was recognized for exceptional service, personal effort, and unselfish interest in the welfare of others with the Boy Scouts of America Vigil Award, the highest honor that the Order of the Arrow can bestow upon its members.

Jim was extremely proud of his Scout work and held his responsibilities close to his heart. He worked as a camp counselor at Camp Theodore Naish, where he found it enjoyable to bring home live snakes and keep them on his mother’s kitchen table. Jim’s love for scouting led him to be invited to Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. It’s the world’s largest outdoor youth camp and a leader in the Scouting movement.

In 1966, Jim enlisted in the Marine Corps and was honorably discharged in 1967. He attended Kansas State University where he studied Physical Education and continued to be a true Wildcat throughout his life.

A jack of all trades, Jim was an EMT and a manager of the Wyandotte Swim before he moved to St. Louis to work for Famous Barr in the apparel division. This led to Jim’s pursuit of a career in retail. He was a buyer and then became the general manager of Styx Bear and Fuller (Dillards) and a successful sales rep for Lee Jeans and Vanity Fair for many years. His cheery disposition was instrumental to his success as an advertising specialty account executive. His biggest pride and joy was landing the McDonald’s account for his company. Towards the end of his career, Jim found joy in working as a substitute teacher and a special education para in Indiana. His heart of gold made an impact on many students and staff members. Jim knew no strangers and was loved by all.

On August 26, 1972, James married Cathy Lundine, in Kansas City, KS. Many memories were made in 51 years as a married couple. Together they traveled the world making timeless memories. He enjoyed cheering for Kansas State University sports teams - especially football, the KC Royals, and the Super Bowl Champions - KC Chiefs.

Jim was the father of two children, Kristin (Butler) Ray and Jason Butler. He drove to early morning swim meets, coached baseball, and was their biggest cheerleader in all they did growing up. Even as adults, Jim still believed in his children and supported them every step of the way.

Being promoted to Papa was a true joy for Jim. He loved having his grandchildren sit on his lap and sneak them sugary treats that were only allowed at Grammy and Papa’s house and listening to them share trials and tribulations of soccer, dance, volleyball, football, basketball, and of course, baseball. He was so very proud of his grandchildren.

Jim is predeceased by his mother and father Kathryn and Henry Butler, his sister Carol Butler, his wife Cathy Butler, and his three dogs Sebastian, Beau, and Libby. He is survived by his two children Kristin (David) Ray and Jason (Lisa) Butler, his four cherished grandchildren, Taylan Ray, Mallory Ray, Rhett Butler, and Audrey Butler, sisters Maxine (Tab) Hunter and Patrica Cruea, and too many good friends to count.

Funeral services will be held at Chapel Hill Funeral Home and Memorial Garden at 701 N. 94th Street, Kansas City, KS 66112. Monday, April 15, 2024. The gathering begins at 3:00 pm. Service to follow at 4:00 pm. Private burial will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.