James Butler

James Lee Butler, 94, passed away January 27, 2021 in Greeley. James was born November 13, 1926 to Alderman Lee Butler and Mabel (Larsen) Butler. His mother died shortly after he was born, and he was raised by his Aunt and Uncle, Mabel (Larsen) Nikkel and Gustav Nikkel.

He attended Littleton High School where he ran track and played football and basketball. He enrolled in the Navy and served two years during World War II. Jim attended the University of Denver, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Engineering. He married Irene Jacobs, and celebrated 69 years of marriage. They raised three children in Boulder, and James had a successful career as an accountant for IBM.

James was a loving husband and father, and was a Boy Scout leader for many years. He was a talented woodworker, and made many beautiful things for his friends and family. He was an active participant of the Greeley GRASP program at the Greeley Senior Center, which his wife helped Celeste Fried found.

He is survived by his loving wife Irene; son, Craig (Karen) Butler; daughter, Laura Butler; and grandchildren, Sarah Frances (Howard) Fan, and Paul Butler, Dylan Butler; his great grandchildren, Percy and Elaina Fan.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his Aunt and Uncle; son Mark Butler; and daughter-in-law Betty Butler.

Please visit www.allnuttgreeley.com to send condolences to the family.