Charlene Ann Butler (nee Fecteau) died on October 7, 2024 in St. Louis, MO. Charlene was born, raised, and lived the majority of her life in South Bend, IN.  She relocated to Missouri to be close to her daughter, Nichole, and family in 2013.  On July 14, 1962, she married Neil T. Butler. She is survived by her three children: Kevin (Aumee) of Cleveland, OH, Nichole (Matt Buesse) Nolan of Wentzville, MO, and Ariann (Dave) Redmond of Fort Lauderdale, FL, 7 grandchildren (Alannah, Cael, Cian, Audrey, Keily, Auria, and Auburn), and her brother Jerry (Linda) Fecteau and his family. Her beloved husband, Neil Thomas, preceded her in death along with her parents, John L. and Gertrude Fecteau (nee Wituski).

Charlene and Neil owned and operated Television Supply, Inc., later known as TVS Electronics. A longtime member of Holy Cross Parish, she served in various roles, including as a Reader, Eucharistic Minister, and member of the Choir.  She also led both her daughters’ Camp Fire Girl troops, and moved up in various volunteer leadership roles for the River Bend Chapter of Camp Fire. Charlene was involved in many facets of the St. Joseph County (Indiana) electoral process, serving as a Clerk, Judge, and Inspector. Charlene saw a need in her local community to protect her neighbors so she was instrumental in creating a Neighborhood Watch program for the Woodlawn neighborhood.

One of Charlene’s first jobs was working in the millinery department at Benton’s Department Store.  This helped to develop her sense of style and her lifelong love for elegant hats, especially her black velvet equestrian riding helmet. Charlene never met a stranger, always willing to lend a hand, shoulder to cry on, ear to listen, and more. She had an enduring love for two Neils; one being her husband, and the other, Neil Diamond; his music was the soundtrack of so many joyful moments.

Her love for gardening was tremendous, transforming her beloved yard on Woodlawn Boulevard into a botanical wonderland. Her signature drink? A Rum and Coke (Pepsi actually!). Above all, Charlene cherished spending time with her family, whether gathered at the dinner table, enjoying summers at Long Lake in Union, MI, watching Notre Dame football, playing tennis, or simply enjoying a quiet evening, she made every moment special.

…Remember me in your heart:
Your thoughts, and your memories,
Of the times we loved,
The times we cried,
The times we fought,
The times we laughed.
For if you always think  of me,
I will never have gone.
~Remember Me by Margaret Mead

In honor of a life filled with love, laughter, and a sprinkle of sass, her children invite you to join them in celebrating the woman who taught us to find joy in the little things, smile, make everyone feel special, and to always wear our hats with style.  There will be a committal service at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on Monday, July 14, 2025 (Neil and Charlene’s 63rd Wedding Anniversary) at 11:15 am.