Robert Lee Butler

Robert Lee Butler January 1, 1940 - October 3, 2025 Robert ("Bob") Lee Butler, age 85, passed away on October 3, 2025, from dementia and a broken heart after the loss of his beloved wife, Barbara "Barb" Jo (Walsh) Butler, who preceded him in death just three months earlier on June 30, 2025. Bob and Barb were devoted to each other for 58 years of marriage, a love that defined their lives. Born January 1, 1940, Bob grew up in Hopkins, Minnesota, and graduated from Hopkins High School in 1958. In high school he was a proud athlete, playing both football and basketball. A reminder of those days still hangs at Snuffy's Malt Shop in Deephaven, where his Hopkins basketball photo remains on display. After graduation, Bob began his career at Sears, Roebuck & Co. as a shop foreman, but his time there was cut short when he was called to serve in the U.S. Army in Korea. Before leaving for Korea, Bob met Barb. When he returned, he looked her up again and swept her off her feet - though not right away. At first, Barb wasn't too sure about him, but her mother certainly was. She made sure Bob was invited over for dinners and parties, giving him plenty of chances to win Barb over. In time, she realized he was a keeper, and the two began their lifelong journey together. After returning home, Bob built a long and successful career as a business owner and sales person. Bob became part owner of Winter Carpet for a short time. Together with his wife Barb, they went on to start Butler Carpet Inc. After several years, Barb went on to take over her mother's bridal shop, while Bob spent a few more years working for Carpet King. He Eventually moved into automobile sales, where he continued to build lasting relationships with customers and colleagues. Even after retiring, Bob kept busy, later working in security at Abbott. Bob and Barb made their home in Edina, Minnesota, where they lived for more than 50 years and raised their three children. Cheryl, Bob, and Tom all attended Hopkins schools, carrying on their dad's pride in the community where he grew up. Bob had a zest for life. He loved to sing and play guitar, was an avid golfer who played weekly with friends, and cherished the years he spent boating on Lake Minnetonka. He and Barb also enjoyed many winters at there condo in Scottsdale, Arizona, where they made wonderful lifelong friendships. In their later years, Bob and Barb moved to Maple Grove, where they enjoyed their final chapter together. Bob will be remembered for his hard work, love of life, and the countless friendships he made, but above all, for his unbreakable devotion to Barb. They are now reunited once again. Bob is survived by his children Cheryl (Tom) Piepho of Maple Grove, Bob Butler of Minneapolis, and Tom (Jolene) Butler of Minnetonka; grandchildren Matt Piepho, Emily Piepho, Madi Butler, and Abi Butler; and his brother Gary Butler of Carmichael, California. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Barb, his parents Vern and Elenor Butler, and his sister Nancy Daniels. Funeral Service: Tuesday, November 26, 2025, at Washburn-McReavy in Crystal, Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Lunch will be served immediately after the service. Interment for both Bob and Barb: Friday, November 28, 2025, at 1:00 PMat Fort Snelling. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association.

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Robert Lee Butler

January 1, 1940 - October 3, 2025

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