Maynard Newton Butcher
June 30, 1913 - August 26, 2010
Obituary
Maynard Newton Butcher
Maynard was born June 30, 1913, died in his sleep August 26, 2010, at age 97. Maynard, known by many as ‘Butch,’ was born in a small town in Indiana, the youngest of eight children. All have pre-deceased him, but he has many nephews and nieces, including his lifelong friend and nephew Otis, only six months apart in age, who diligently called Butch throughout his life and his dear sister in law Magdalene, who was only slightly older. Both Otis and Magdalene are still living on their own in Indiana. From his small school with a graduating class of 35, Butch graduated with high academic achievements, as exemplified by his four years of Latin, which, until shortly before his death, he could still recite poems in. He met the love of his life Bonita in 1935 and was married shortly thereafter. While both were located in Indiana at the time, the two were intent throughout their life together on seeking opportunity, and moved to Denver, where their first and only child Bruce was born in 1940. As Butch was scientifically inclined, he initially worked as a chemist in a sugar mill and later a journeyman machinist during the War. These skills developed into a long career in engineering. After studying drafting and mechanical design, he and his family moved to Seattle in 1953 to start a long career at Boeing as an experimental engineer. Always in pursuit of further knowledge and skills, he joined his son at the University of Washington in 1958, receiving his mechanical engineering degree three years later. At Boeing, he spent decades as a lead engineer and designed complex models for testing, such as an input nozzle for supersonic engines. His loyalty and service to Boeing was immeasurable, as evidenced by surviving massive layoffs, being requested back after retirement, and never missing the annual company party up to nearly his last years. Always full of activity and extremely fit for his whole life, he usually rode his bike to work and frequently enjoyed diving, swimming, skating, hiking, fishing, hunting, skiing until age 80 and improving every year, and mowing his lawn up until he was 95. Butch was also an excellent shot and could still significantly outshoot his son and grandsons late in life. He was an ardent traveler, venturing to Egypt, Turkey, all of Europe, Central and South America, primarily with his wife. After her death in 1991, an event which greatly affected him, he traveled to Peru and Ecuador with his grandson and to China with his granddaughter, both trips taken while in his mid-eighties. He celebrated his 80th birthday working as an engineer at a gold mine in Alaska, carrying a gun in case of a bear attack. He led a good, satisfying life with many friends. He was mentally acute his entire life and always interested in both learning and discussing such topics as history, archeology, and the sciences. He always enjoyed good meals and good conversation. He is survived by his son, Bruce, his daughter in law, Alva, his grandsons, Derek, Tobin, and Duncan, his granddaughter, Kirstin, his granddaughter in law, Lisa, his grandson in law, Jim, his great grandchild, Blake, age one, and his great grandchild , expected in late September. A Requiem Mass will be held for his repose in Our Lady of Fatima Church, Seattle, at 11AM Friday, September 10th, 2010, reception following at the Church Hall. His ashes will be interred next to his dear wife later that afternoon.
Dear Family of Butch~ We were so blessed to know Butch for 33 years!
In 1977 when our house next door to Bonnie and Butch came on the market we were told by many that we “just had to buy this little house”! At the time we thought it was because it was such a wonderful little home but we soon found out that it was the greatest house in the world because Butch and Bonnie were our dear, beloved neighbors. They were always there for us! They lovingly looked out for our Mollienow 26 all through her years and even one day rescued her with milk, cookies and a story when her Kindergarten bus was early and I was late. We found ourselves spending hours chatting over the fence and daily looking forward to stories with Butch. He was an inspiration! I miss him each and every day but will remember him with great love and admiration! Mark and I are sad that we will not be able to be at Butch’s service tomorrow. We will be with you in spirit and with love.
Mark and Linda Turner
My thoughts and prayers are with you Bruce, along with Alva and the entire family. On each occasion that I talked with your father, it was clear he was a truly remarkable man. An amazing legacy stands with the Butcher Family as a testament to Butch and a wonderful life.
Bruce. Donalee and I read your father’s obituary in Sundays paper. We share your sadness at losing your father,since we both have experienced the same feelings. Your father must have been an exceptional man, given all his accomplishments. You must have been very proud of him. We send our best wishes to both you and and Alma.