Lionel Joseph Butler, World War II vet
Lionel Joseph Butler, 94, of Ocean View passed away peacefully Thursday, Aug. 27, 2020.
He is survived by the love of his life, Marie Tine Butler; sons, Lionel (Joyce), David (Gail), Mark (Delynn), Thomas (Julie) and Jeffrey (Terri); daughters, Kerry Robusto (James) and Barbara Dileonardi (partner Mark Showacre); 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters, Mary Mulhausan (Whitey) and Patricia Cerf; numerous nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilmer T. Butler and Anna Mary Marx Butler; grandson David Allen Butler Jr.; sisters, Anna Magsaman (Fred) and Laura Spine (Anthony); and brothers Wilmer (Betty) and Brice (Delores).
He loved his family time and enjoyed gardening, boating and casino games. He was better known as “Pop-Pop Joe.”
“Joe” was born in Baltimore, Md., and founded L.J. Butler Plumbing and Heating Company, passing the family business to his five sons along with his grandsons.
He entered WWII active service Feb. 14, 1944, in the U.S. Navy, served on vessels NTS, Bainbridge, Md., and US Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. He received the Pacific Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon and Victory Medal with an honorable discharge as Seaman First Class.
A thank you to Beebe Healthcare, Seasons Hospice, Coastal Home Care, and Melson Funeral Services for their kindness and compassion.
A private gathering will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Mason-Dixon VFW Post 7234, 29265 Marshy Hope Way, Ocean View, DE 19970.
Online condolences may be left by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com
