Obituary of William Butler

ALBANY –

William Butler, age 76, born October 31, 1946, a lifelong resident of Albany passed away on July 15, 2023, after a period of declining health.

He is the son of the late Robert and Joyce Butler of Albany.  Bill was the devoted husband of Carmie (Leotta) Butler, his true love, who predeceased him in 2003. Bill and Carmie were the loving parents of three daughters, Lisa Butler of Latham, NY, Tara Balboni (Nick) of Russell, MA, and Kate Butler-Azzopardi (Rich) of Albany, NY.  He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Leo, Cecelia, and Jesse Balboni, as well as his sister Barbara Emptage (Jeff).  He was predeceased by his sister Joyce (Bill).  Bill was also predeceased by his feline companion Ago, who gave him great joy.

Bill spent most of his career as a co-proprietor of his family business, Coulson’s News Center.  Coulson’s was an Albany institution, a regular morning stop for governors, mayors, and legislators, as well as many working men and women, and Bill took great pride in the family business.  Later, Bill spent many years working for Home Depot, and Avila Independent Living.  He was a very hard worker, quick to laugh, and always made wonderful connections with those he worked with.

A great joy of Bill’s was his recreational bowling league, and he considered his multiple 300 games amongst his proudest moments and his perfect game rings among his most cherished possessions.  Bill owned and ran a custom woodworking business for many years specializing in beautiful heirloom wooden toys and dollhouses. Bill and Carmie loved entertaining, playing cards with friends, and had many treasured people in their lives.  One might not have expected it, but Bill was great on the dance floor.  He will be missed by many.

Cremation has taken place through the care of Simple Choices, Inc. Services will be private.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make a donation to a charity that is special to you and think of Bill’s life fondly. 

 

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Butler Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com