Obituary of Kenneth Gordon Butler, Glace Bay / Timberlea

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of Ken Butler, 86, of Glace Bay and formerly of Timberlea, Nova Scotia on October 21, 2024.

Born in Halifax, Ken was the eldest son of Gordon and Maida (Awalt) Butler of Boutilier's Point, NS. He is predeceased by his parents and brother, John "Ted" (St. Thomas, ON) and sister, Janet (Victoria, BC). 

Ken lived a full and enriched life. He understood the value of hard work, entering the automotive industry at 14 years old. He began pumping gas and later earned his mechanic's license, honing his skills to open service stations in Halifax, the first on Quinpool Rd., (Texaco), followed by Chebucto Rd. and Robie St. (Ultramar locations). He worked tirelessly alongside his wife, Violet and their children, providing excellent customer service and cultivating a loyal customer following. In time, he earned recognition and numerous business achievement awards.

Ken was active in his community, volunteering with the Beechville-Lakeside-Timberlea Lions and Lioness Clubs and supporting the IWK Kermesse. He enjoyed golfing with friends, flying radio-controlled airplanes, boating and in his early years, building stock cars. He loved playing card games, like auction, with family and friends, often placing outrageous penny bets that usually paid off. It was in these moments of delirious fun that you could hear him laugh with his heart and soul and Ken's laugh was infectious.     

He retired in 1996 and worked with Violet to care for young children. He was exceptionally good with babies and many still refer to him as Grampy. These children and their parents remain an important part of Ken and Violet's extended family. 

The couple moved to Glace Bay in 2016 to be closer to family. Ken later moved to Seaview Manor for additional health support. In his final days and hours, he was surrounded by family and loved ones. He will be dearly missed. 

Ken is survived by Violet, his wife of almost 65 years, their children, Clay (Vanessa), Cherie (Jeff), and Cindy (Bruno), and grandchildren, Matthew, Andrew, Emily, Stephanie, David, Jeremy, Sophia, Roen, Samantha, Ava, Malaya and Braylin.

Cremation has taken place. A public visitation will be held Saturday, November 9th, 2024, from 3:00-5:00 PM at V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 16 Reserve St., Glace Bay, NS. Light refreshments are being served during the visitation.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to your local food bank.

On line condolences to the family can be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca