Merle V. Butler 84 of Rochelle, IL died May 24, 2008 at home. He was born Dec. 12, 1923 in Rochelle, IL the son of Boyd and Emma Vogeler Butler.

He married Mary June Petry on Nov. 29, 1952 in Rochelle, IL. She passed away on June 10, 1992, also preceded by a grandson Weston Scott Butler on June 4, 1988 and a granddaughter Channing Allyssa Butler on July 4, 1990. Also preceded by a brother Burnell Butler and two sisters Arlene Anglemier and Lorena Engelkes.

Merle and Mary June had a passion for dancing and card playing with many friends. Merle also enjoyed golfing and fishing with his family and friends. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He always had time for his family. He will be deeply missed by all.

He was a member of First Presbyterian church of Rochelle.
Merle farmed and then worked at Del Monte can plant for 30 years as a maintenance mechanic.

Survived by a son Gary Butler of Rochelle and a daughter Mary (Terry) Hatfield of Rochelle.
And a brother Allen Butler of Phoenix, AZ

4 Grandchildren Trenton and Ali Butler and Breanne and Brooke Hatfield all of Rochelle.

Funeral services will be held Thursday May 29, 2008, 10:00 a.m. at Unger-Horner Funeral Home. Visitation on Wednesday from 4 to 7 P.M. at Unger-Horner.

A memorial has been established to First Presbyterian church.

Burial will be in Lawnridge Cemetery Rochelle.