Charles (Corky) Earl Butler Sr., a longtime resident of Cahokia, Ill., passed away at home on Tuesday, July 4, 2023 surrounded by loved ones.  Corky was born on April 3, 1940 to Max and Anna Butler of East St. Louis, Ill.
Corky was full of life. Always ready with a smile or joke, he loved to share the good things of life with his family and friends. From banana splits and chocolate shakes to Cardinals baseball and fishing, he enjoyed life with an unquenchable delight.
Corky loved children, especially his grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was never too tired for fun. Every child in his family has a handmade wooden gift and precious memories of playing and wrestling with him.
As befits a patriot and veteran, he passed away on Independence Day, a distinction he shares with Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. He enlisted for service in the United States Army, qualifying as a paratrooper for the country's only dedicated air assault unit: the "Screaming Eagles" of the 101st Airborne, where he also distinguished himself as a sharpshooter.
His parents, his wife of forty years, Rita Butler, his grandson Colin Butler, siblings Max Jr. (Bobo) Butler, Shirley Brown, Catherine Ogden, siblings-in-law, James Stahlbeber, Albert Smith, Vicki and Leonard, Gibson, and Jim Bowman preceded him in death.
Corky is survived by sons: Charles Jr., Troy, Mo., Craig (Kristi), Lake St. Louis, Mo., and Chris (Ashley), Bunker Hill, Ill., three siblings: Carol Stalheber, State Park, Ill., Bertha Smith, Collinsville, Ill., and Dorothy (Ronnie) Anglin, Mt. Olive, Ill., a sister-in-law: Janell Bowman, of Farmington, Mo., and his grandchildren: CJ, Peyton, and Molly Butler. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving friends.
Visitation will be on Tuesday July 11, 2023, from 4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at Braun Colonial Funeral Home (3701 Falling Springs Road, Cahokia, IL 62206).
A burial service will be held at Braun Colonial Funeral Home on Wednesday July 12, 2023 at noon. A funeral procession to Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery will follow immediately after the service (2900 Sheridan Road, St. Louis, MO 63125).
Per Corky's request, please dress casually.
In lieu of flowers, monetary donations may be made to Mission 22, a national veteran nonprofit organization.