Gary Butz

GARY BUTZ

Norway

Gary Butz, 76, of Norway, Iowa, passed away Thursday, June 22, 2017, at Mercy Medical Center as result of a head trauma. Services are at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 27, at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Norway with Father Craig Steimel and Father Brian Dellaert officiating. Burial will take place at St. Michael's Cemetery, Norway. Visitation is from 3 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 26, at St. Michael's Parish Hall.

Memorials may be directed to the Norway Baseball Association.

Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.hrabakfuneralhome.com.

Born in Norway, Iowa, on April 24, 1941, to Harold and Marlys (Schulte) Butz, he was a resident of Norway his entire life. He married his high school sweetheart, Betty Ann Bartosh, on Oct. 24, 1961. They were married 52 wonderful years, until her passing in 2013.

He is survived by his children, Sharon (Rick) Brown of Cedar Rapids and Brian (Paula) Butz of Walford; two grandchildren, Tyler and Rachael Butz; one step-grandchild, Chalet Brown; stepgreat-grandson, Eli; best friend, Gary "Bomber" Boddicker; special friend, Ellen Banse; along with nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and his dog, Klous.

He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; a brother, Roger; father- and mother-in-law, Cliff and Helen Bartosh; and his brothers-in-law, Ronnie and Gary Bartosh.

The majority of his life he worked as a journeyman electrician for IBEW 405. He later became the business agent for Local 405 before retiring in May 2004. Earlier in his life, he worked for Collins Radio and was a deputy for the Benton County Sheriff's Department.

Gary is a great loss to the town of Norway. He served as mayor and councilman for many years. He had a passion for Norway baseball, coaching Pony League and was a big part of the Norway Baseball Association. He was a lifelong member of St. Michael's parish as well as serving on the church council. He was a volunteer fireman and a member of the Norway Jaycees. He loved Norway and gave a countless number of hours to make Norway a special place. He loved his family and always enjoyed the get-togethers. He enjoyed all sports, but he loved baseball. He enjoyed reading, music (especially big band), playing euchre and watching Westerns.

Gary was a man of great integrity. He will be greatly missed by all the lives he touched.

Arrangements are with Brosh Funeral Service of Norway.