Tony Ray Butler, 79, of Ottumwa, passed away June 8, 2020 of Lewy body dementia and Covid-19.

He was born March 10, 1941 in Centerville to John C. and Pauline L. Rodefer Butler. He was the youngest of three boys. He married the love of his life, Everdina Tunderman, March 16, 1964. Their 56 years together were filled with happiness, adventure, and their three children.

He attended Ottumwa High School and served 4 years in the U.S. Air Force (MP). When he returned home, he was an officer with the Ottumwa Police Department, and he served with the National Guard. He worked at John Deere Ottumwa Works, retiring in 1992, as a supervisor, and was often referred to as the “best boss.”

Tony continued to operate Everdina’s Greenhouses with his wife and mowed for Ottumwa Schools.

Surviving is his wife, Everdina; three children, Monique (John) Hinchliff of Granger, Timothy Butler of Ottumwa and Yvonne (Richard) Johnson of Unionville; 11 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; a brother, John (Alice) Butler of Bettendorf, an aunt, Berniece Butler of Centerville; several cousins, nieces, and nephews; and his dog, Sassy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Rex Butler.
His body has been cremated and as per Tony’s request, no funeral is planned. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Memorials for Tony’s family may be mailed to Reece Funeral Home.

Tony was a very kind, hard-working man, loving husband, father, and grandfather, always happy, had a great sense of humor, and a big smile. He was admired as a boss, and loved by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.