Obituary of Russell William Butler

Russell William Butler passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 from injuries sustained in a car accident in Boise, ID.  Russ was born on December 28, 1941 in Payson, Utah to William R. and Beth Carter Butler.  He was raised in Gunnison, Utah, where he graduated from high school and then attended Snow College.  He later served in the National Guard.  He began his career working in the Banking industry in Salt Lake, Moab and Boise, and then finished his career in the Small Business Administration.  He enjoyed photography with the Boise Photography Club and taught himself matting and framing his photos and other artwork. 

He enjoyed his cars, from his first Plymouth, and an MG to Volkswagons to a Cougar and a Lincoln. 

He married Pamela Salmon in 1968 and had a son Philip.  They were later divorced, but have remained friends.  He married Susie Groves McGee, his one true love, in 1982, who brought to the union two sons and a daughter.   

Russ and Susie enjoyed going out to breakfast and lunch each week.  His greatest joy in life was spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

Those who knew Russ would be quick to say he had a big heart, was a pleasure to be around and an inspiration in both his personal and professional lives.  Quick to smile, brighten one’s day with a corny joke, or just a simple “hope your day is great” message for no particular reason.  He is deeply loved and sorely missed. 

Russ is survived by his wife Susie, who was also severely injured in the accident, sons Philip Butler, Doug McGee, Justin McGee and daughter Mendi McGee; 5 grandchildren and one great granddaughter and another on the way. He was also survived by a sister Barbara Turnbough and a brother Duane Butler.  

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Kent Butler and granddaughter Morgan McGee. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.