Butterbrodt, Ross William

Ross William Butterbrodt, 49, of Clarence, died Sept. 10, 2010, at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City. Funeral services: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, St. John's United Church of Christ, Clarence, by the Rev. David Mears. Burial: St. John's Church Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Chapman Funeral Home, Clarence, is in charge of arrangements.

Born Aug. 21, 1961, he was the son of Robert and Elaine (Moeller) Butterbrodt. His siblings are Craig, Steve, Glenn, Lon and Amy. Ross married Lynn Hunwardsen, daughter of Robert and Phyliss Hunwardsen, on Dec. 10, 1983. Ross and Lynn were blessed with three children: Devin, Randy and Mariah.

Ross graduated from Tipton High School and Muscatine Community College. Most recently, he held a sales position with Kent Feeds, Inc. He was passionate about his career. Ross was assistant chief for the Clarence Volunteer Fire Department, serving on the department for 24 years.

He was a member of St. John's UCC and board member of Clarence Ambulance Association. He enjoyed visiting, fishing, tinkering, mowing, NASCAR, and especially loved working with Devin and Randy building hot rods. Mariah was the twinkle in his eyes, and his dog, Chassis, put a smile on his face.

Ross' life was a miracle, framed with two extraordinary cancer experiences. He lived with fullness and gratitude in the time he was given. In life-changing ways, Ross' endurance impacted his family, friends, community, health care professionals and strangers. He will be deeply missed and remembered with affection.

Ross is survived by his wife and children, parents, siblings and their families, grandmother, Velma Butterbrodt; a host of extended family and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Elmer and Dorothy Moeller and William Butterbrodt.

Online condolences may be sent to

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.