Edward Francis Butler

Edward Francis Butler, of Sunny Corner, New Brunswick passed away peacefully at Percy's Place on Monday, January 15, 2024, at the age of 82 surrounded by his family. 

Born in Newcastle, he was the son of the late Raymond and Emeline (Doyle) Butler, and the older brother to the late Charlie Butler (Mary), Donnie Butler (Diane), Robert Butler (Eileen), Paul Butler (Clarence) of Niagara Falls, Joanne (Al Frost) of Calgary, Bryan Butler (Trudy) of Moncton, and the late Debra Butler. Edward was also predeceased by his brother Everett and sister Marie.  

He will be greatly missed by his wife Wanita (Judy) Butler of Sunny Corner; his children Suzanne (George Taddeo) of Ignace, ON., James Butler of Morden, MB., Sharon (Ian MacKay) of Dryden, ON., Nancy (Dean Barclay) of Kenora, ON., and Michael Butler of Thunder Bay, ON. Known to his grandchildren as “Papa Eddie”, Edward leaves 12 grandchildren; Giovanni, Rebecca, Nathan, Isabella, Grace, Cory, Teanna, Nicholas, Hannah, Matthew, Kane and Emma. Edward also leaves 5 great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins. 

Edward left the Miramichi in the late 1960’s in pursuit of work.  Edward and his family lived in Lynn Lake, MB., Leaf Rapids, MB., Fort McMurray, AB., and Ignace, ON., following the booming mining industry through many adventures and meeting many lifelong friends from the east to west coast along the way. Although Ed worked in mines, his true calling was the operation of heavy machinery. Ed prided himself on his ability to operate all kinds of equipment including the crane and grader with precision and mastery.   

Edward’s second loves, after Judy of course, were playing his guitar and woodworking.  Ed played the guitar since he first tried strumming in 1968.  His Fender guitar was his pride and joy and he would often fill the house with music and songs that would get everyone singing. Edward and a few friends from Ignace even started a band who would practice weekly and play at the Seniors Centre.   

Ed loved new tools and the latest gadgets for woodworking. He would often lose himself for hours in the garage surrounded by his tools and woodworking projects. Ed built everything from decks, furniture, lawn ornaments and everything in between. Ed would often joke that he almost lost three fingers building one specific deck. Ed often volunteered his knowledge and skills for any renovation happening with family or friends. His projects will be treasured by those of us lucky enough to have them.  

After suffering a major heart attack in 1994, Ed was forced to retire and become a full-time husband and Grandfather.  Although this transition was very difficult for him, like any job he worked, Ed took pride in his new position. Ed would cook lunches, keep his yard immaculate and chauffeur grandchildren whenever he was needed. After a long day of work, Ed would often treat himself with his favourite beverage, a spiced rum and pepsi. 

Edward and his wife of 61 years, Judy, decided to make the move back “home” to the Miramichi in 2014 where they have resided in Sunny Corner close to family since. Their move back reunited them with brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews and childhood friends. Ed will be remembered for his love and commitment to his family, his love of country music and his charismatic charm.  

Edward was a member of St Thomas Roman Catholic Church, in Red Bank. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 11 am, at St Thomas Roman Catholic Church, in Red Bank, with Father Dan Melanson officiating. Interment will take place at a later date. 

As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to Percy's Place. 

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Northumberland Funeral Home & Crematorium, 102 Pleasant St, telephone (506) 622-7741. Where your loved one never leaves our care.