Raymond Philip Butkiewicz

Born in Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, Raymond graduated from Nanticoke High School. Directly after graduation, he joined the Air Force on June 6, 1952. After being discharged on June 5, 1956, he continued his career with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as an Air Traffic Controller, a career that spanned 34 years. He started at JFK in New York, NY, spent a few years at BUF in Buffalo, NY, and went on to retire from PHL in Philadelphia, PA, in the Spring of 1987.

On August 7, 1965, he married Patsy Y. McMonigal, and together they raised their family along the way.

Raymond took his responsibilities seriously, gave everyone he met a smile, and took pride in living honorably. He worked hard for what he felt was important.

In 2004, Patsy and Raymond moved to Hickory, NC, where they made more great friends and enjoyed their final act together.

Raymond took his leave quietly and gracefully, just as he lived. He is survived by his wife and his children — Teresa Y. Bickings, Peter P. Butkiewicz, and Christine L. Hakala — along with their families of 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

A memorial will be held on August 29, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at:

The Hickory Aviation Museum 821 21st St NW, Hickory, NC 28601

Memorials may be given to the Hickory Aviation Museum, 821 21st Street NW, Hickory, NC 28601 or St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 52 16th Ave NW, Hickory, NC 28601.

Condolences may be sent to the Butkiewicz family at www.drumfh-hickory.com

Drum Funeral Home in Hickory is honored to be assisting the Butkiewicz family.