Cecil Franklin Butler

Born on December 16, 1922, the son of Hugh and Nina (Amy) Butler in Mesick Michigan, Cecil graduated from Buckley High School and was in the U.S. Army at the conclusion of World War II, stationed in Japan. He married the “Love” of his life, Lois McCann on November 28, 1942, and they stayed happily married just short of 67 years.

He had just turned 96 years old on December 16 and in recognition of that impressive accomplishment, he had enjoyed performances by his two great-grandchildren Jakob and Lexy Abraham who played instruments and sang for an assembly of Traverse Manor residents. Due to the season, the selected music was Christmas songs. After the event, Cecil told everyone who’d listen that this had been the happiest birthday he could remember.

The word “passion” comes to mind when thinking of Cecil. He was passionate about life; about his family; about his farm and woodlots; and, about his involvement with the Buckley Old Engine Show Club. Cecil “went to work” moving dirt, which was his other great passion, at the Club as often as he could. He had many friends associated with the Club and spent much of his work time “communicating” with all these people.

Yes, Cecil was quite a “communicator” and enjoyed talking with many, many of his friends and family. The list of these people grew over the years - particularly, since retiring from Schworm Inc. at age 62, after 32 years there. He never seemed to lack for something to do and stayed busy most days at the Club grounds; and enjoyed cutting wood as well as making maple syrup in the spring.

Cecil was particularly close to his daughter Denise and son-in-law Ken Abraham who live just across the field from his house and who spent much time looking-after Cecil which allowed him to live independently for many years — particularly, after his wife Lois died in 2009. Cecil’s son, Kent, lives in Atlanta, Georgia, and the two of them stayed in touch via phone due to distance; although, there were many trips South and North throughout the years that kept Kent and his family close with Cecil.

Cecil is survived by his daughter Denise (Ken) Abraham, his Son Kent (Mary) Butler, Grandchildren Christopher (Maggie) Abraham, Jason (Ann) Abraham, Kent II, Emily , Hannah, and Madison Butler, along with five Great Grandchildren, Jakob, Kenny, David, Lexy, and Jackson Abraham.

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations can be sent to Denise Abraham to be given to the Buckley Old Engine Show Club for maintenance and upkeep of the Lois and Cecil Butler Club House on the Club grounds.

The Family would especially like to thank his wonderful caregivers at Traverse Manor, as well as the Caregivers at Orchard Creek and Hospice of Michigan.

No service is planned at this time.