Marion Butler

With so much love to give those around her, Marion Butler was a blessing in the lives of numerous others within her reach. She was a devoted teacher who inspired the many students who sat in her classroom, her career exemplifying that teaching is also a matter of the heart. A loving wife and mother, Marion was delighted to witness her family tree blossom to include the grandchildren and great-grandchildren she treasured more than life itself. Although she will be dearly missed, the memories she leaves behind will never be forgotten.

The 1930s were some of the most trying days our nation has ever seen as the entire decade was cloaked in the hardship of the Great Depression. To make matter worse, a harsh drought gripped the heartland of our nation for two years during this time, placing added strain on an already crippled agricultural industry. Despite the trying times around them, a young couple from Grand Rapids, Michigan, was able to shift their focus to a joyous time in their own lives as they were eagerly anticipating the birth of their new baby as summer graced the horizon in 1933. Their wait was over on June 6th when the baby girl they named Marion R. drew her first breath. She was the second of five children born to her parents, John and Helen (Dingman) Borgman, and she was raised in the family home alongside her older brother, Morris, and her younger siblings, Patsy, Richard, and Gerald. Marion’s father worked as a rip sawyer at a local furniture company, which was the prominent industry in Grand Rapids at the time, while her mother was a busy homemaker.

In many ways Marion experienced an upbringing that was fairly typical for the youth of her generation. She was a student Lafayette Elementary in Grand Rapids during her earliest years, and she went on to graduate from Central High School in 1951. With dreams for a bright future, Marion continued her education at Western Michigan University, graduating with a teaching degree. Her education didn’t end there, however, as she later earned two master’s degrees from Western as well.

With her education behind her, Marion was ready to embark on a rich and rewarding career. For over 23 years she taught second grade at Dorr Elementary where she was a highly respected teacher who was loved by her fellow staff and students alike.

Not to be forgotten during Marion’s younger years was her marriage that brought forth her precious daughter, Christine. Although her marriage ended in divorce, Marion was always grateful for the blessing of her daughter.

New and exciting days were in store for Marion when she met the man with whom she would share the best years of her life. His name was Franklin “Chick” Butler, and they were introduced through her brother, Morris, and his wife, Dorothy. After dating for about one year they were married in 1959 in Holland. Together they were blessed with their daughter, Carrie. They lived in the Grand Rapids area throughout their married life until her husband’s death in 1992.

Throughout her life there was nothing Marion treasured more than her family. She enjoyed traveling and camping with her family during the years when her girls were younger. The Christmas season was one of Marion’s favorite times of year because it was a time for the family to gather together. She loved everything about the holiday season from the buying of the presents to decorating the tree and putting up all the decorations and listening to Christmas music.

In addition to being with her family, Marion’s life was enriched in other ways, too. She was a staunch Democrat who faithfully contributed to the party she supported. At home she enjoyed watching sports of all kinds on television, but her favorites were the NFL and golf. Marion treasured the companionship of her special cat, Molly, that was so very loyal to her. She also kept busy reading, putting together puzzles, and doing a variety of word search games.

Life became more difficult for Marion and her loved ones after she endured several falls more recently. When she needed more care, she moved to her daughter Christine’s house in Swartz Creek around Christmastime this past year. Throughout the remainder of her life Marion received excellent Hospice care.

When reflecting on the life of Marion Butler, we are reminded that happiness is not found in what we have, but that true joy is found in the love we share with those around us. She was the sort of person who was never concerned with building wealth or accumulating possessions, rather, she focused her time and attention on enjoying each and every moment she was given to spend with those she loved most. Her legacy of compassion, generosity, and graciousness will be carried on by those who follow her.

BUTLER Mrs. Marion R. Butler, age 79 passed away Monday, April 1, 2013 in Swartz Creek. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank “Chick” Butler; her daughter, Carrie Hathaway; brothers, Morris and Gerald Borgman. Surviving are her daughter Christine (Garry) Yeager; grandchildren, Michelle (Marcel) Lamb, Matthew Butler, Sr., Joseph Hathaway and Thomas Hathaway. Also surviving are her great grandchildren, Madelyn Lamb and Matthew Butler, Jr.; sister Betsy and David Hooker and brother Richard and Nancy Borgman and 14 nephews and nieces who loved their Aunt Marion dearly. She was a longtime second grade teacher who taught at Dorr Elementary for 23 years. Friends may meet the family on Thursday from 6-8PM and on Friday from 10-11AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, 851 Leonard NW with services Friday at 11AM. Interment in Oakgrove Cemetery. Contributions in her memory may be made to Home and Hospice Advantage, 1309 S. Linden Rd. Flint, MI 48532. Please go to www.lifestorynet.com to leave a favorite memory or photo of Marion or to sign her online guest book.