Mary Louise Butler

January 10, 1922 - May 17, 2024

Our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, Mary Louise Butler passed away May 17, 2024 at the age of 102. Cremation has taken place and a family memorial will take place at a later date.

Mary Lou was born and raised in Tilden, Nebraska on January 10, 1922 to parents Paul and Martha Grote. She had no siblings but adored her dear cousins, Darlene and Lois, who were like sisters to her.

Mary Lou met the love of her life, Robert Henry Butler, MD at a school dance at Wayne State Teachers College and they were married in 1942 in the midst of WWII. Being a part of the "Greatest Generation," they remained married for 59 years, raising a family in Santa Rosa, CA where Robert set up a medical practice as a Radiologist. She was predeceased by her husband Robert in 2002.

Mary Lou is survived by her three children, Robert Brian Butler (Kay), Lynne Anne Moser (Bob), and Pamela Jean Tolan (Tim) and her greatest legacy was being grandma to Theresa Butler Brandt (Dan), Michelle Butler Hembree (Jared), Scot McGrath (Angela), Alex Rosa and Maxwell Tolan (Josephine). She is also survived by great grandchildren, Zachary Brandt, Nicholas Brandt, Kayleigh Hembree, Fianna McGrath, and Xenia Rosario McGrath. She is also survived by her loving niece Peggy Klinker (Jim), great niece Casey Gawan and great nephews Elliot Gonzales, and Rod Dupont.

A second mother and friend to so many, her spicy personality and direct outlook on life helped guide and nurture many of her children's friends and family members. Mary Lou was strong in her convictions and lived life accordingly. Mom was known to say what you needed to hear, not always what you wanted to hear, and her love was intensely dedicated to those God placed in her loving care. She loved collecting shells, stamps, beautiful art pieces, had a passion for Indian art and the Indian culture, and loved life-long learning endeavors. She never missed a beat assuring books were sent to her grandchildren to enjoy good literature. She enjoyed playing bridge, loved to travel, and was dedicated to the role of doting wife and homemaker. She made the absolute best potato salad and chocolate chip cookies. She always ensured that every child who crossed her threshold was safe, healthy, and happy.

Mary Lou will be missed by many, but her death is a passing through a door that opens to new eternal life with her Savior Jesus.

Donations may be made to any Hospice organization in her memory. Jesus I trust in you.