Eric Butler

Eric Reese Butler was born June 9, 1949 in Lincon, Neb., to parents Sidney Reed and Ferne Irene (Chapman) Butler.  He graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Forestry and Engineering.
Eric met Linda in 1998 in Spokane, Wash., at Kinkos.  They were married in 2004 in an outdoor setting at a dear friend’s home.  Over their 20 years of marriage they lived in Spokane, Williston, N.D., and in 2020 they moved to Custer, S.D. A lifelong dream was achieved when they built their log cabin which was perfectly set in the Black Hills. Eric designed their home with attention to every detail.
Observing nature was a daily joy—deer, turkeys, bunnies and birds; they all visited Eric and Linda.
Eric and Linda loved Jesus. They attended Abundance Life and Living Outreach churches. They were involved with Bible study. In the Custer community, Eric was involved with Christian motorcycle association (CMA), Custer VFW, Custer Area Chamber of Commerce and positions of responsibility within their housing development.
Family was very important to Eric. In addition to morning prayers for family and friends, numerous road trips occurred to visit family in the Pacific Northwest.
Eric was extremely intelligent, kind, friendly to all, a wonderful friend and the kindest husband Linda could ever hope for. Eric always had a smile on his face, would wave to everyone while driving, and was a great conversationalist.
Eric, of Custer, passed away Nov. 15, 2024. He was 75.  
He is survived by his wife, Linda of Custer; sons, Cameron Brayton of Washington and Darryl (Kiersten) Northcraft of Minnesota; grandchildren, Crystal (Parker) Weber,  Melody Brayton,  Tyler (Tasia) Brayton and Wilson and Laura Northcraft; great-grandchildren, Xela, Landon, Liam, Amiyah, KeAndre and Elaina;  brothers in law, Dwight (Diana) Brayton and Bill (Evett) Brayton; and sister in law, Darice (Paul McShane) Brayton.
A viewing and time for fellowship was Nov. 22 at Living Outreach Church.  Funeral services followed at Living Outreach Church. Graveside commitment was at Pringle Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Custer VFW, Living Outreach Church, Compassion in Jesus’ name (Aneudys has been sponsored by Eric and Linda for the last two years), Custer VFW,  CMA and Custer July 4 celebration.  
Eric and Linda’s love for community, friends and family will never cease.
Arrangements have been placed in the care of Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Custer.