Ervin L. "Butch" Shimkus

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Tony “Sonny” Shimkus.

He is survived by his sister, Sharon Zwiezen of Denver, CO.

Butch was the beloved husband of Sharon (née Firnhaber) Shimkus, with whom he shared 61 years of marriage. Together, they resided in New Baden, IL. He was a devoted father to his children, Kathy Ridley (fiancé Tom Wolf) of Springfield, IL, and John Shimkus (Josi) of Neptune, New NJ. His legacy includes his cherished grandchildren, Nicole Subick (Ryan), Erica Guerin (Paul), Savannah Shimkus, Benjamin Shimkus, Grace Purvis (Joseph), John Paul Shimkus, AJ Shimkus, and Noah Shimkus; and one great-grandson, Johnathan Subick.

Butch dedicated over 30 years of service to Peabody Coal. He was instrumental in developing Mine Rescue Teams at Peabody Coal Mine #10 and served on several boards, including as President of the Illinois Mine Rescue Association. His commitment to mine safety and rescue operations left a lasting impact on the industry.

A proud Navy veteran, Butch was an active member of the American Legion. He was also a member of the Mascoutah Sportsman’s Club, where he served as Treasurer for 19 years. As a devout member of St. George Catholic Church in New Baden, he was deeply involved in his faith community. In recognition of his noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service, Butch was bestowed the honor of Kentucky Colonel, the highest title of honor awarded by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, 700 E. Spruce St., Chatham. Ceremony will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Father Joseph Molloy officiating.

Burial will follow at Virden Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Butch’s memory. Donations can be made online at St. Jude’s website or by mail: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105

Your generous support will honor Butch’s legacy and contribute to the lifesaving mission of St. Jude.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.