Mr. John Lawton Butcher Jr, a beloved resident of Richland, WA passed away in the comfort of his home on May 5th, 2024. John was a man whose life was colored by the vastness of the American landscapes, was born in the heart of Omaha, Nebraska at Methodist Hospital on Christmas Day, 1934.
He was a man of many talents and passions that shaped his extraordinary journey through life.

Growing up in Valley, Nebraska, John discovered his love for hunting, trapping, and farming at a young age. Graduating from high school at just 16, he went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Lincoln, Nebraska were he was a very proud member of the Nebraska Huskers. In his early adulthood in Absarokee, Montana, John worked at the Chrome mine, where he not only met his beloved wife, Helen, but also showcased his cowboy skills by riding the Brahman bull and becoming a bareback champion.

One of John’s greatest joys in life was the birth of his four sons, and later in his career, he went on to co-own B & D Alignment with his son, Jerry. With a passion for engineering, John pursued a Master’s Degree in the field, eventually obtaining his private pilot’s license and later becoming a flight instructor. His expertise led him to become a troubleshooter at Apollo Rockets, where his knowledge and skills shone brightly.

As a dedicated member of society, John was a proud Lifetime Member of the Quantrill Society and played a pivotal role as an initial shareholder at the Richland Hangar Association, leaving a lasting impact on those he came across.
John is survived by his four sons John Lawton Buther III, Jerry Wayne Butcher, James William Butcher and Jeffrey Lee Butcher. Grandchildren, Nicole Marie Butcher, Kristin Butcher and her spouse Jaren Wilkinson. Sherri Butcher a niece who called and chose to be a friend to John.
He is preceded in death by his parents John Lawton Butcher and Helen Ruth Clark.

The memories and cherished moments shared with John will be honored at the upcoming funeral services. A public viewing will take place at Events at Sunset on May 23, 2024, at 9:00 am, followed by a Celebration of Life ceremony at 11:00 am. The Committal Service and Interment will be held at SMG – Peace Block I at 12:00 pm. The reception to reflect on John’s life and legacy will be held at Einans at Sunset at 1:00 pm on the same day, commemorating the wonderful life he lived and the impact he left on all who knew him.

John Lawton Butcher Jr’s remarkable journey will forever be remembered and cherished by his loved ones, friends, and the community he was a cherished part of.