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BRENDAN (WILLIE) BUTLER
Born: Oct 10, 1961
Date of Passing: May 05, 2021
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory
BRENDAN (WILLIE) BUTLER
October 10, 1961 - May 5, 2021
He will be deeply missed by his wife Janice of 33 years, daughter Brittany, son Brendan (Karen), father-in-law Eugene Phaneuf; brothers and sisters, Cindy, Peter, Tom, Brenda, Della, and Lisa, and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his mother Gertrude Ryan, Uncle Dave Ryan and mother-in-law Alida Phaneuf.
Born in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, he grew up surrounded by a large, loving family. As a young man, Willie joined the army reserves, eventually moving to Thompson, Manitoba, where he worked as an underground miner for Inco. There he began his greatest adventures, making lifelong friends and cherished memories.
In 1986 Willie met the love of his life, Janice. He was a devoted partner who dedicated his life to supporting and providing for his family. He was tremendously proud of his children - loving them beyond measure and ensuring they wanted for nothing.
Shortly after relocating to Winnipeg in 1988, he started his own company, Ryan's Yard Maintenance and Snow Removal. Willie took great pride in his work and was passionate about his business. In addition, Willie also worked a second career for over 20 years at Canada Post where he would go on to create many strong connections and lasting friendships.
He was full of life and laughter, and countless individuals will never forget his many acts of kindness. A true Newfie at heart, Willie's generosity left a lasting impression on all who met him. He always lent a helping hand to those he encountered, never wanting nor accepting anything in return. Words cannot express how much Willie will be missed. He will live on forever in our hearts.
A Funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Charles Catholic Parish.
If so desired, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ronald McDonald House Charity.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 15, 2021
Condolences & Memories (6 entries)
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I met Willie through his brother Peter and I am shocked to see Willie has since passed away and I relocated to Kelowna about 10 years ago my deepest condolences and my memories was me and Pete driving the plow truck and removing snow with Peter and hearing Pete and Willie having one of the many debates on how to do something and hearing Pete say your retarded u know that and Willie saying I guess your right I am retarded bc I've given u the keys to the truck what was I thinking lololol its big Trevor btw and not to take anything away from Willie but also we lost Trevor Ritchie he died in his sleep june 29, 2023 and knew the brothers as well. - Posted by: Trevor (Friend of Willie's and Peter's ) on: Jul 04, 2023
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Janice, Brittany, Brendan and the Phaneuf family, Michael and I are so sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers through this difficult time. Your husband/ Dad was always kind, generous and giving to everyone. May Willie rest in peace knowing he was deeply loved and cared for. We are so grateful to have all of you in our lives. - Posted by: Alisha & Michael Miguez (Friends & Family) on: May 19, 2021
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My deepest sympathies Janice on the loss of your beloved Willie. I hope you find comfort in your many memories and the love of your children. - Posted by: Brenda Szunyog (Friend) on: May 18, 2021
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Please accept my deepest sympathy on the passing of your dear husband Willie....gone too soon! I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Take care! - Posted by: Shirley Ruchkall (Karen's grandmother) (Acquaintance) on: May 16, 2021
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Janice, so sorry to hear about Willie, he endured a long battle and is now at rest in God. I know he will continue to watch over and guide his family. I will continue to pray for you all. Peace to you all - Posted by: Andrea Mackie (Friend) on: May 16, 2021
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Janice, Brittany and Brenden: We offer our deepest condolences to you all. Willie was a great friend and would give the shirt of his back to anyone who needed it. You just had to say you needed something and Willie would have it there the next day. Even when he was sick we were talking of finding someone to clean the leaves of our lawn. The next day someone was doing it for us. That someone was sent by Willie. He was always helping the poor and downtrodden. We were very fortunate to have Willie as a friend. Rest In Peace Willie. We are praying for you all. Brittany and Brenden, be proud of your Dad. He was a great man. Love you all. Chris and Colleen - Posted by: Chris and ColleennSouce (Friends) on: May 16, 2021