Dennis Butler 1950 - 2024

LARENE, BUTLER, OTTERPOHL

Posted By: Connie Swearingen (email)
Date: 11/20/2024 at 23:00:16

Sioux City Journal
31 August 2024

Dennis Butler, 73, a legend of the Woodbury County Courthouse, has passed away in Omaha, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Sept. 7, 2024 at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel, 3220 Stone Park Blvd, Sioux City. Visitation begins at 9 a.m. with family present at 10 a.m. Graveside services to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Celebration of Life to be held at Missouri River Boat Club, starting at 1 p.m. Attire to be Iowa State Cyclones, casual or beach wear.

He was born to Robert Butler and Erma (Larene) Butler, on Sept.1, 1950, in Dubuque, Iowa.

He graduated from Sac City High School in 1968, attended Morningside College, graduating in 1972. Upon graduating college, Dennis accepted a position in the State Auditor’s Office, which he held for five years. He ran for office in 1996, God had bigger and better plans for his journey, he worked relentlessly as Budget/Finance Director in Woodbury County an incredible 47 years, until he was called to Eternal Life. He had a strong desire to work on major projects, accepting challenges. As of recent, Dennis was an instrumental part in the project to get all gravel roads in top-notch shape over a five-year plan, launching the new Law Enforcement Center, and renovations to the courthouse, to name a few.

He served on the board of the Missouri River Boat Club and acted as Dock Chairman for many decades. And this is where he met the love of his life Theresa Otterpohl, and shortly thereafter, they were married. Most currently he held the club’s Fleet Captain position. The MRBC was his pride and joy. He joined May of 1977. He gave his heart and soul to everyone, near and far, who attended all the fun events, he would give a quick call or text, share a drink or a story, as if it were his second family and home. He was a major inspiration of all the fundraising proceeds collected in the Siouxland area. Including building the new MRBC (Bent Prop), wet and dry dock parties, meat sales and poker runs. He was the longest standing board member of MRBC. He was an avid sports fan, particularly Iowa State Cyclones football and basketball. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren Kennadi, Natalee and Braxton, attending the games for local sporting events including the Sioux City Explorers, and Sioux City Musketeers, and fishing. His Great Grandson Cordell (Tonka) holds a special place in his heart. His true vocation, however, was as a community builder. He understood that the strength of any community lies in its connections. Whether through organizing neighborhood events, supporting local initiatives, or simply being there when someone needed a friend. He dedicated himself to ensuring that no one ever felt alone. He was more than a community leader; he was a friend, a mentor, and a confidant to many. His home was always open, his ear always willing to listen, and his heart always ready to give. He believed in positive relationships with others, the inherent goodness of people and sought to bring out the best in everyone he met. His laughter was infectious, his smile brightened any room, his advice was wise, and his presence was a source of comfort to those who knew him. His work wasn’t about recognition or accolades; it was about making a difference, one person at a time. He was a true servant and leader, a man of strong faith; he believed in miracles.

Special thanks to his heroes, David Otterpohl, for taking him on countless trips to the Mayo Clinic, and Nebraska Med, and stayed endlessly through the entire journey. The care and compassion from his Step-daughter, Beckie Hogan, with sleep-overs at Nebraska Med, during the end of his journey.

He leaves behind, his loving and devoted wife, Theresa (Otterpohl) Butler, a step-daughter Beckie Hogan, step-son Darin Miller, grandson Tyler Miller whom he loved as his own children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, several Brother and Sister in laws, countless friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly. His legacy is one of love, kindness, and an unyielding belief in the power of community and strong relationships with one another.

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Erma (Larene) Butler.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting a “Special Memorial Monument” in Sioux City. You may make donations through Security National Bank-Memorial of Dennis Butler or to the family of Dennis Butler.