I am so saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Dave.  We were classmates at Carson-Newman University.  We had many music classes together, sang in A Capella Choir together under “Fessor”, and sang a duet in chapel, (the golden gem “I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say”).  We also had roles in Der Fledermaus and other theatrical productions.  Since we both lived in South Florida after our graduation, we occasionally ran into each other at UM’s Messiah Sing-In with Dr. Kjelson, and at the theatre.  In addition, while we were both music directors in South Florida churches, we shared ideas, cantatas and slides.  I will miss his phone calls, Facebook posts, his magnificent voice, his friendship…………his heart.

Dear Ramon,
Words can’t express the loss that you and the world are experiencing with the passing of David. He was a wonderful friend and the best next door neighbor anyone could ever enjoy. We miss him so much. 
Love,
The Katers

Ramon, I am so sorry to hear of the sudden passing of your David.  He was such a wonderful person and a true friend.  I met David when we started flying for Eastern Airlines many years ago.  May he Rest In Peace.

Every time I came over for my weekly voice lesson in middle school, David would open the door and greet me with a big smile and a hug. He always made me feel instantly at home. This didn’t end at the door. Whether it was making sure I had my sheet music printed and ready for summer camp, enthusiastically helping my brother and I record a parody version of “Ice Ice Baby”, or making sure I never left without a cup filled to the brim with jelly beans, I always felt like I could rely on David to help me face the world outside the walls of his and Ramon’s home with a smile. I’m so grateful for the safe space he fostered for me with Ramon during such an important time in my life. Even years later, I knew that I could always knock on the door anytime and be welcomed with open arms . That love is something I will always cherish and feel just as strongly for the rest of my life. Thank you David, I miss you. and thank you Ramon, David’s other half. I’m so grateful to both of you <3

We are very saddened with news of his passing.

To my Christian brother and friend, growing up in the church youth group together, I am filled with many happy and fun memories. I know we will meet again on that beautiful shore.  Love, Sandy (Werk) Cloutier

Christmas with my family….every year….matching Jammie’s!!!

Happy 70th to David!  We had such a good time!

I met David fifteen years ago when my daughter became Ramon's voice student. David would always answer the door with a smile, welcoming us into their home.

 It is hard to define a gentleman, but David was a gentleman. He carried himself with grace, goodness, and quiet dignity. He had an easy way about him that made you feel good and at home in his presence. With David, you could relax. You could laugh easily. You could be bawdy and still feel proper. My mother, who used to come with me to voice lessons, absolutely fell in love with him and with Ramon, and they established their own separate and special bond. 

David was well-mannered and courteous, but it was more than that. He spoke quietly and kindly; when he spoke, you listened because you knew he had something to say. In our house, David was famous for sharing what he made...soups, cookies, cakes. His model of hospitality and generosity was rare, and damn, his baked goods were excellent!. I also appreciated what I saw as sort of a childlike joy for both the small and big things (he was so excited to show me his new car and gave me a ride around the block so I could experience a Tesla myself), and his enthusiasm was contagious.

When I think of David and his grand love for Ramon, I think of Angelica Schuyler's line in Hamilton ( you know, I had to bring it back to Broadway for this couple). Angelica goes to a ball in NYC and says she is looking for a partner---"looking for a mind at work." And that must have been what it felt like when David met Ramon those many years ago. Two beautiful, creative, artistic, musical souls encountering each other, minds at work, building a lifetime together on a foundation of kindness and love.

I am grateful to have come into their gravitational pull. All those little things he did for people created a beautiful life. Our family will miss him and often think of his warm smile. Rest in peace, David.

To David’s remaining family members:
  So sorry to hear of his passing.  
Sending love and prayers for family and friends.

Walt and Sheila (Graham) Sabin

High school is a time when many of us music nerds felt a little out of place and a little weird. David always ensured that we felt talented, beautiful and like we belonged. He made his home feel like our home and always let us know that we had a safe space. I am so grateful to have known him - and to have spent time with him last Christmas. He inspired me in the ways I treat my own students. David, you will be greatly missed.

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Robert David Butler

3 août 1948 – 9 octobre 2023

Kraeer-Becker Funeral Home & Cremation Center

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