If you live in or anywhere near Wilmington, Del., and ever need wood to make or build something, you know the place to go is Butz Lumber Co., a firm established long ago by Bill’s dad. Bill served as its president until Sept. 25, 2016, when he died at age 93. He was known for his fondness for football, wrestling matches, and a good debate, as well as for his faithful attendance at any athletic event that saw one of his children in the game.
Creating adventures for himself and his three sons, Bill led them in exploring caves, hiking and camping on the Appalachian Trail, cruising the waters of Delaware Bay aboard his O’Day sailboat, and traveling to Mystic Seaport, historic Williamsburg, and military museums and battlefields.
Bill is survived by his wife, Jeanne; sons Charles “Chip,” Bill IV, and Steve; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. The Class of 1946 is thankful for this classmate’s long life and well-remembered sense of humor.