He is survived by his wife Nancy, children Amy Hogan (Casey) and Steven Butner (Whitney), father Vincil Butner, brothers Michael (Vicki), Mark (Julie), and sister Ann. Matthew was preceded in death by his mother Mary and his sister Mary Margaret Cook.
Of special significance to Matthew were his second set of brothers and their spouses from his high school years. The 74-Fellowship was nearly a lifelong contributor to his growth and happiness, some of whom will be pallbearers. Those include The Dandurands, Donigans, Father Hermes (Celebrant), Flannerys, Jennings, McAuliffes, McMenamys, Pearces, Swartzes, Triticos, Vandergriffs, Velasquez, and preceded in death by Dan Hogan. Also irreplaceable throughout his life were extended Butner and Matthys family members.
Matthew lived a blessed life starting with a supportive and adventurous childhood. During college he met his wife Nancy, the love of his life (his words) for forty plus years. Their children Amy and Steven became the focus of his life. Their spouses Casey and Whitney enhanced his family. The gift of family was completed with grandchild Preston, Cameron, Kennedy, and Hannah. Although his grandchildren never knew the pre-ALS Matthew, each one had their own special bond with him. Matthew enjoyed a successful career in pharmaceuticals, working for the same company for thirty-two years. His career, which was both challenging and rewarding, enabled him to travel the world. After retirement, voluntary teaching brought him joy.
Matthew loved the image of a changing autumn tree. He thought it a wonder that it was at its peak of brilliance just before its winter sleep. Throughout his life, he always wanted to bring value, brilliance and purpose. It was his hope that lessons taught, experiences shared, and reflective memories will foster new growth in the spring. During his thirteen years of ALS transition, his personal reflections often provided comfort, which he compiled into a book, Chapters Living With An Incurable Disease.
Throughout Matthew’s life he was an inspiration to many. As his ALS journey progressed, he had to relearn many of life’s simplest tasks, often more than once. During these challenging times, Matthew and Nancy were surrounded by numerous close friends and countless unknown angels. He never gave in to ALS and lived life to the fullest.
Go Chiefs!
A public visitation is scheduled from 5:00 - 8:00 PM Friday, December 4th at St. Gabriel Catholic Church. A private Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday at St. Gabriel Catholic Church; burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. The Funeral Mass may be viewed via the Facebook page of McGilley Antioch Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Gabriel’s Elementary School, 4737 N. Cleveland, KCMO 64117.
