William J. Butler, “Bill”, age 86, passed away peacefully at his home in Indiana surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Bill was born and raised on the east side of Joliet and graduated from Joliet Catholic High. He served in the US Army for two years and worked for the US Post Office in Joliet, Illinois for many years. Bill married Joan Knudson, the love of his life and best friend in 1965. They resided in Lockport, IL until 2023. In their nearly 60 years of marriage, they built a beautiful life together as true partners, amazing parents, and incredible grandparents. Bill was an educator to his core. He attended Lewis University and Northern Illinois University, achieving his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biology and education, and a Certificate of Advanced Study in school administration. Bill put his heart and soul into his role as teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent, dedicating his 35-year career to the students, parents, and teachers at Homer Community Consolidated School District 33C in Lockport, Illinois. William J. Butler School, located on Farrell Rd in Lockport, Illinois, was named in honor of Bill’s service to the Homer CCSD and community. Bill was an avid fisherman, loved music, sports, old movies, and was a WWII buff. Above all, Bill cherished the time he spent with his family and friends. He was generous and kind, full of grit, a true storyteller, and a rock for everyone in his life. Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Joan Butler (nee Knudson); cherished children Kristin Wood and Karin (Chip) Pettit; treasured grandchildren Ethan and Jared Wood, Will and Avery Pettit, his siblings Joann (late Sam) Mecouch, Kathy Sledak, Richard (late Marybeth) Butler, Marguerite Butler, Kevin Butler, and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his loving parents Edward and Mildred (nee Papesh) Butler, siblings Edward (Virginia) Butler, Patricia (Norm) Strickland, and Mark (Leslie) Butler. Memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Goodale Memorial Chapel, 912 S Hamilton St, Lockport IL 60441 from 9:00am-11:00am. Friends and family are invited to gather at 12:00pm for a funeral service at Shepherd of the Hill Lutheran Church, 925 E 9th St, Lockport IL 60441 followed by inurnment at 2:00pm at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W Hoff Rd, Elwood IL 60421. There will be no procession to the church nor to the cemetery.