Lasting Memories

Norman Dean Butler
July 31, 1935-Aug. 23, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Norman Dean Butler passed away Monday August 23, 2021. Born July 31, 1935 to the late Lillian Elizabeth Butler in Palm Springs, CA on an Indian Reservation. As a boy, he was called “Deanie” after Dean, the name of their Cherokee Tribe. He was the eldest of 7 brothers and 2 sisters. He married the love of his life, Judy Ann at 19 years of age, Judy was 16. They were married 63 years until Judy’s passing March 2018. They raised their sons, Kenny and Kerry and daughter Shari in Fremont CA.

Norman was an incredible person. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, brother, and a fun-loving loyal friend to many. He and Judy instilled love and caring family virtues that will continue through generations. He touched many lives with his kind, generous and loving soul. Quite the jokester through-out his life, always ready for a good laugh and a fun time.

Norman was an entrepreneur as a young boy, standing on the street corner shining shoes. As a teenager he was a truck driver, working for his stepfather’s trucking company. In 1967 he started his own business South Bay Welding Supply in Hayward, CA. He built a successful business with 5 bay area locations and 2 in Redding CA. He ran his family business for 33 years, throughout employing his whole family and many dedicated employees. He earned the respect of the Welding Supply community and Bay Area businesses. He was a personal and fair employer. He retired in 2000, living in Pleasanton CA for 24 years.

Norman loved adventure. He enjoyed boating and waterskiing, as well as anything with wheels, sport cars, motorcycles, sand rails, etc. The faster the better. He also had fun camping with family and friends. He adored his beloved dogs.

Norman had a wonderful life, enjoying each day to it’s fullest. His family and friends meant the world to him. He was positive, always looking for the WIN/WIN situation for all those involved. His legacy will live on through the hearts of lives he touched. Although he will be terribly missed, we know that he is dancing in Heaven with his girl, watching over us. Until we see you again, we love you.

Norm is survived by his son Kerry Butler (Jill), daughter Shari Schanen (Tim), Granddaughters Jessica Butler Roberts (Matt), Danielle Meader (Zack), Karalee, Grandson Ryan Schanen and Great-Grandson Westen Meader. Among those, he has also left behind Sister Linda Orinyak (Steve), loving cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends. Proceeded in death by his son Kenneth and wife Judy.