Dayton William Butler, known as “Willie” by his closest friends and family, found peace with himself and his Lord May 13, 2023.
He was born Sept. 28, 1987, to Dayton Lee Butler and Sally Anne (Rowland) Butler in Kirksville.
He graduated from Milan C-2 with the class of 2006. Dayton was well known as “one of the good country boys.” He could always be found smiling and helping others and had a heart of gold with a smile that filled the room.
In 2007, Dayton attended the State Technical College in Linn where he earned his Associates degree with a focus in diesel mechanics. While attending school in Linn, he met the love of this life, Rebecca (Freet) Butler and eventually they moved to the family farm.
Dayton and Rebecca were united in marriage in 2013, in Milan and remained in the area to begin their lives together. In 2021, the family returned to the Linn area to raise their children, William age 6 and Adaline age 3. Being a dad was by far his proudest accomplishment in life and he poured his heart and soul into his family. Dayton enjoyed family time, playing with the children, reading to them, and attending Freshwater Christian Church together. He had a never-ending love for his children and their mother, that will never be forgotten.
As a young child he enjoyed cub scouts, little league football and baseball. He also played football some in his junior high and high school years and was a member of the FFA.
As years went by Willie loved spending time on the family farm with the cows and baby calves, hunting with his friends and family, mushroom hunting, fishing, his red dodge truck and riding four wheelers.
Dayton was preceded in death by grandparents, Dayton and Bessie Butler of Milan and Bill and Delores Rowland of Princeton; and mother-in-law, Patsy Barber of Linn.
He is survived by spouse Rebecca and their children; parents, Dayton and Sally; sister, Kassidy Neuhalfen; uncle, Jeffery Lee Butler; and nieces Payton and Nevaeh Neuhalfen.
As per his wishes he will be cremated and there will be a Celebration of Life to be held at noon, Saturday, June 10, at the Milan Christian Church in Milan. Lunch will be provided.
Memorial contributions suggested to Dayton’s children, William and Adaline Butler.
Arrangements entrusted to Morton Chapel in Linn.
