Life-long Winnetka resident, Theodore R. Butz (Ted), 91, died July 30, 2021, leaving behind his beloved wife of 53 years, Elvira, his 5 children and their families. Born to Herbert and Alice Butz, Ted grew up with his twin brother Robert and his older sister Alice. He attended North Shore Country Day School and then graduated from Princeton University, after which he served as a Marine officer during the Korean War.
Adored by his family, including 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, Ted was an active sportsman who was not only a marathon runner, but an excellent tennis player, golfer and windsurfer. He and Elvira also shared a love of travel, visiting many places around the world. When not involved in sports, he was an avid reader and lover of crossword puzzles. We all remember him dearly for his kindness, generosity, his wonderful sense of humor and an inexhaustive love of ice cream!
Ted was also known for his unwavering patience wrangling a handful of rambunctious, quarreling kids especially during outings that often ended with at least one mishap or another. Whether a broken bone, a fish hook in the face, a camper burning down in the desert, attacks of hungry ducks or an unfenced bull. Ted's quick and upbeat preparedness always prevailed. This surely prepared him for a long and active life. He was always there when we needed him and always ready to make us feel better.
Ted is survived by his wife Elvira; his sister Alice B. Moir; his children Shelley; Ted (Suzanne); Susie (David); Jim (Monica); Nicole (Sean); his grandkids Katie, Bobby, Teddy, Maddy, Wyatt and Guthrie and his great-grandkids Ben, Max, Hayden and Bennett. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Winnetka Community House. A private family service is planned.
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