Stephen R. Butler

Stephen Ryan Butler, 74 of Rockford, IL died Friday, July 27, 2012 in his home. Born April 24, 1938 in Chicago, the son of Francis and Margaret (Ryan) Butler. A United States Veteran serving in the Army. Married his loving wife Dawn M. Packard on September 17, 2002 in Las Vegas, NV. Steve was a paint salesman prior to moving to Rockford in 1969 to become the longtime coowner of Illinois Decorator Center. In the Rockford area, Steve was regarded for his knowledge and expert craftsmanship relating to the service, repair and installation of window treatments. His expertise led to the establishment of Steve Butler Installations, which he independently operated for more than 20 years. Steve loved boating and fishing, gardening and yard work, and he was an avid Chicago Bears and Cubs fan. He also was a longtime supporter of Rockford East High School athletics, spearheading multiple fundraising efforts while serving as President of the ERab Booster Club. Steve was a wonderfully loving husband, nurturing father and grandfather, and beloved brother who will be missed greatly by all. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the OSF St. Anthony Cancer Center and OSF Hospice careproviders for their attentive and compassionate care. Steve is survived by his wife Dawn; children, Stephanie (John) Figlioli of Winnetka, IL, Brian (Mari) Butler of Iowa City, IA, Noah (Jessica) Butler of Oklahoma City, OK; step sons, Jerry (Karyn) Burch of Sycamore, IL, and Timothy Burch of Charleston, SC,; grandchildren, Kole, Sy, Lucca and Isabella; step grandchildren, Austin and Nolan; brothers, Francis (Beth) Butler, Daniel (Audie) Butler, John (Rosita) Butler and James (Marianne) Butler; sisters, Judith Butler, Mary Alice (Thomas) Coffey and Margaret Jane Connors; many nieces and nephews and his faithful canine companion, Donny. Predeceased by his parents; brother, Michael and brotherinlaw, Francis. Funeral service Wednesday, Aug 1, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel 1860 S. Mulford Rd. with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will be held in Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Winnebago. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.