David Paul Butler, 79, of Bluffton, passed away Monday morning, May 27, 2019, at his residence.

David was born in South Bend on Feb. 15, 1940, to Cecil D. and Madeline R. (VanHeesbeke) Butler.  He married Zella A. Swyers in Bluffton on Oct. 24, 1964; she survives.

A 1958 graduate of Bluffton High School, David graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1962 with a bachelor's degree in economics.  He served active duty in the United States Army from 1962 until 1964 in Germany, retiring as a Captain with the Army Reserves.

David enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandkids.  He enjoyed running, motorcycling, traveling and flying in which he owned several aircraft over the years and was proudly certified in multiengine aircraft and helicopter.  He was co-owner and self-employed in the Western Auto stores, True Value, and Radio Shack in Bluffton and Ft. Wayne, retiring in 2003.

David was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bluffton and was past President of the Wells County Chamber of Commerce.  He was an avid photographer and enjoyed nature and walking the trails at Ouabache State Park.

In addition to his wife, David is survived by three sons, David J. (Carol) Butler of Bluffton, Stephen P. (Michele) Butler of Ossian, and Mark T. (Stacy) Butler of Ft. Wayne; a daughter, Ann Barker of Warsaw; eight grandchildren, Adam (Amber Key) Butler, Robin (Jason) Coffman, Evan Butler, Kristen Butler, Collin Crandal, Olivia Butler, Jacob Barker, and Sarah Barker; one great-grandson to be, Jacob Key; a sister, Mary (Gerald) Fisher of Bluffton; and two brothers, Tom (Maureen) Butler of Bluffton and John (Claire) Butler of St. Paul, MN.

David was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be Thursday, May 30, 2019, from 3:00 until 8:00 PM, at Goodwin – Cale & Harnish Memorial Chapel in Bluffton, followed immediately by a Prayer Service/Rosary at 8:00 PM at the funeral home.  Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, May 31, 2019, at 11:00 AM, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bluffton, with one hour of visitation prior to the service at the church.  Fr. David Violi will officiate.  Burial will follow at Elm Grove Cemetery in Bluffton with military graveside rites conducted by the United States Army Honor Guard in conjunction with the American Legion Post 111 of Bluffton.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Society of St Vincent de Paul.