Allen R. Butler

ALLEN ROBERT BUTLER, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 25, 2017 at his home, surrounded by his family.

Born on December 28, 1936 in Sauk Centre, Minnesota, he was the son of Louis M. and Sarah Elizabeth “Libby” (Smith) Butler.  He graduated from Sauk Centre High School in 1956 and went on to graduate from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Art.  Allen married Gloria Ann Carlson on June 22, 1963 in Parkers Prairie, Minnesota. 

Al’s favorite job out of college was with the American Crayon Co., calling on elementary school art departments. He enjoyed providing workshops for teachers and students, using his creative talent for expression.  He earned Salesman of the Year in 1968 and then, as companies merged, he found himself in the office products industry with Joseph Dixon Crucible Co. and later Bates Mfg.  Being familiar with office product stores, he and his wife moved to Waseca in 1973 and opened Waseca Office and School Supply, combining art and office products for sale. 

Al requested some wood carving tools for Christmas in 1980 to carve some duck decoys.  He continued to experiment with various designs and tools and techniques, until he was satisfied with a finished product.   Mallards, canvasbacks, wood ducks were all familiar to him because of his passion for hunting, which he had done since his youth.  Family requested that he carve swans.  Later Al decided to try carving fish; trout, walleye, crappies, and muskie.  They all found places on the mantel. His last carving adventures included fishing lures. His works are equally intricate and beautiful.

Al enjoyed travel throughout Europe, Mexico, and Hawaii, making sure golf was included in all destinations.  Hunting and fishing with family continued to be important and usually included a faithful hunting dog.  He enjoyed watching his family grow and felt particularly blessed when the first great-grandchild arrived.  Al was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Waseca, Waseca Lakeside Golf Club, Northwest Travelers, and a former member of Waseca Rotary.

Al was a simple, good man. He will never be forgotten by those who loved him.
He is survived by his wife, Gloria of Waseca, two sons, Bradford (Shannon) Butler of North Mankato and Barry (Lori) Butler of Owatonna; seven grandchildren, Courtney (Joe) Nathe, Molly and Christian Butler, Parker (McKinzy) Butler, Lara, Cole, and Brynn Butler; and one great-grandchild, Zoe Nathe.  He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Marian (Charles) Johnstone; and two brothers, Sidney (Alta) Butler, and Jack (Betty) Butler.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 15, 2017 at 11:00 AM at Grace Lutheran Church in Waseca.  Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until the time of services at the church. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, Waseca Area Hospice, or donor’s choice.

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