Mr. Ralph William Butler, 95, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 5:23 a.m., in the comfort and serenity of his own home.

Born on November 16, 1929, in Elkhart to the late Ralph W. and Margaret Butler, Ralph lived a life rooted deeply in family, faith, service, and workmanship. He was a lifelong resident of Elkhart and a man whose word was his bond. He now rejoins his beloved daughters, Rhonda Lee and Tonia Shree Butler, along with his nine siblings – Harold, John, Arthur, Donald, and Kenneth, Phyllis, Joanne, Blanche and Sandra whose lives were intricately woven into his own.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 75 years, Carolyn A. (Fuzzell) Butler, who survives him at home. A devoted husband, together they raised a close knit and loving family.

Ralph's legacy continues through his children, Kevin M. (Teresa "Teri") Butler, Julie A. (Robert) Thatcher, both of Elkhart; his grandchildren, Tate Butler (Rob Hunden) of Lakeside, MI., Brock Butler of Elkhart, Hilary (Blake) Rodgers of Osceola, Conor Butler of Hampton, VA, and Madison (John) Visto of Mill Valley, CA; and his great-grandchildren, Jaxon Velez, Lennox Rodgers, and Bennett and Katherine Visto. He is also remembered fondly by extended family, and neighbors and his dear friend and brother-in-law Donald Martin.

After high school, Ralph answered the call to serve and joined the United States Army, where he was assigned to the Medical Detachment of the 188 th Parachute Infantry Regiment. He proudly served as a vehicle driver during the post-war occupation of Japan and wore the badge of a veteran with quiet humility and honor.

Ralph was a tool and die maker and machinist by trade and he spent his entire career with Excel Industries and W.T. Armstrong. Ralph was also the co-founder of Kardinal Flutes, in Elkhart. Ralph was also known as the family "fixer", if it was broken, Ralph could fix it.

He had a special love for the outdoors and took great pride in keeping his yard perfectly maintained. His lawn was more than just a patch of grass – it reflected his character: steady, disciplined and thoughtfully cared for. He was never one to sit idle, and even into his later years, he remained active, engaged and eager to lend a helping hand to family and friends.

A devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a trusted neighbor, and a faithful servant to his community and his country. A life well lived.

In accordance with his wishes, Ralph's cremated remains will be laid to rest with military honors at a later date at Rice Cemetery in Elkhart.

Though Ralph has departed this early life, his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved him and the countless lives he touched with kindness, skill and quiet strength. He will be remembered always and deeply missed.