Michael John Butkus, 70, of Morrison, IL, died Saturday, December 9, 2023, at Iris Memory Care in Oklahoma City, OK.
Mike was born November 21, 1953, in Morrison, to John and Evelyn Butkus. Mike experienced a joyful childhood, growing up with his five siblings and a loving mom and dad. He was educated in Morrison schools, graduating Morrison High School in 1971. He was a competitive Football player and Track and Field participant. He attended Sauk Valley College in Dixon, IL, before transferring to Western Illinois University, receiving his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration in May 1976. Mike has had a variety of jobs over the years, but his most revered was working in corporate food sales. Mike had an appreciation for hard work. He loved being out in the yard, mowing, raking, and weeding. Mike was a Long Distance Runner and completed multiple marathons. Mike’s jobs presented many travel opportunities, as well as living in many different States, including Florida, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, and Minnesota. He returned to Oklahoma in August 2020 to be closer to his children and grandchildren, after being diagnosed with dementia. He was an active grandfather, attending sporting events, dance recitals, parades, and birthday parties while his health allowed.
Michael is survived by his mother, Evelyn Butkus, of Morrison; son, Adam Butkus, of Schaumburg, IL; daughter, Jenna (Chuck) Gentry, of Oklahoma City, OK; granddaughters, Evelyn and Mary Gentry, of Oklahoma City; siblings, Beth (Greg) Wahl, Annette Butkus, Andrew (Debbie) Butkus, Mary (Joan Erickson) Butkus, John (Jenny) Butkus; nieces and nephews, Brian (Elizabeth) Wahl, Michael (Amanda) Wahl, Kevin (Bethany) Wahl, Kate Butkus, Andrew (Melissa) Butkus, Susan Butkus, Tim Butkus, John (Danielle) Butkus, Daniel (Jill) Wahl, Mark (Katelyn) Butkus, and Samantha Butkus.
He is preceded in death by his father, John Butkus, Sr.; brother, Tom Butkus.
A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Grove Hill Cemetery in Morrison, IL.
An intimate Celebration of his Life will follow the funeral services at the Butkus family home for Mike’s family.