OBITUARY: Robert L. Butler, 87, Passes Away Sept. 11, Father of Coach Doug Butler

By  //  September 12, 2025

dedicated family man and patriarch, Robert lived his life with strong Christian values

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert L. Butler, age 87. Robert is survived by his sons Doug (Rhonda) of Melbourne, Florida, Nick of East Lansing, Michigan, and Bob (Kristy) of Newark; daughters Glenna (Scott Jones) Butler of Millersburg, Cindy (Shawn) Mitchell of Orrville, and Alisa Butler of Newark; and grandchildren Matthew (Jessica), Veronica, Greg, Kyle (Brianna), Jake (Megan), Savanna (Kaleb), Shawn (Gina), and Alex, along with fourteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings Don (Joyce) Butler, John (Marsha) Butler, and Alice (Bob) Bowers.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert L. Butler, age 87, of Millersburg, formerly of Newark. Born a twin to Dale and Florence (Marshall) Butler in Loudonville, Ohio, on August 28, 1938, Robert’s life was marked by love, hard work, and family devotion.

Funeral Services will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, September 14th, at Alexander Funeral Home with Pastor Dave Truit officiating. Burial will follow at Prairie Township Cemetery, Holmesville, Ohio. Friends may call two hours before the service on Sunday at the Funeral Home.

Robert married Ann Delores Lowe on November 30, 1974, and together they built a loving home. He departed this life peacefully on September 11, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

A dedicated family man and patriarch, Robert lived his life with strong Christian values. He worked tirelessly as a tanker truck driver, first for Marathon Ashland Petroleum and later hauling milk for Rancks Liquid Transport. His family extends heartfelt thanks to Shari Ranck.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Robert had a passion for sports, supporting the Browns, the Indians, the Cavaliers, Dale Earnhardt Sr., and NASCAR. He delighted in attending his children’s games and took great pride in watching his grandchildren pursue their own athletic passions.

Robert is survived by his sons Doug (Rhonda) of Melbourne, Florida, Nick of East Lansing, Michigan, and Bob (Kristy) of Newark; daughters Glenna (Scott Jones) Butler of Millersburg, Cindy (Shawn) Mitchell of Orrville, and Alisa Butler of Newark; and grandchildren Matthew (Jessica), Veronica, Greg, Kyle (Brianna), Jake (Megan), Savanna (Kaleb), Shawn (Gina), and Alex, along with fourteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings Don (Joyce) Butler, John (Marsha) Butler, and Alice (Bob) Bowers.

Preceding Robert in death were his beloved wife, Ann; sisters Emma, Eileen, Hazel, Beulah, Martha, and Dorothy; as well as brothers Charles, Frank, Russell, Arthur, Ronald, Raymond, and Richard.

We wish to express our gratitude to Robert’s good friends at Bags Pub, particularly Heidi and Russ, for their companionship and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Ohio’s Hospice Lifecare, 1900 Akron Rd, Wooster, OH 44691. The family would also like to say a special thanks to Ohio’s Hospice for the care Robert received.

Robert’s legacy of love and commitment will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.alexanderfhinc.com.

Related Story: