Reginald “Dale” Butler
April 10, 1941 - June 5, 2025
Funeral Details: A private family service will be held
Reginald “Dale” Butler passed away peacefully in hospice on June 5, 2025, surrounded by family and friends.
Dale prioritized fellowship with his loved ones. He was the devoted husband of Sharon Butler (nee Pearson) for 56 years, faithful father of Shelley Sera (Jim) and Shawna Potje (Chris) and proud “Papa” of Jacob Sera (Sheridan), Tyne Sera (Matt), Sylvie Potje and Leah Potje. He was a dear brother of Marion Webb (Gerry), the late Mervin Butler and the late Lorne Butler. He was a loving uncle, loyal neighbour, and friend to many.
From ice cream outings at Minet’s point with the grandkids to Thanksgiving reunions in Elmvale, Dale valued the traditions that brought people together. He cherished time spent around the table with loved ones while out for coffee, on Saturday breakfasts, and simply by doing an evening puzzle at home. Dale’s thoughtfulness extended to his four-legged friends. He never left the house without a plastic-wrapped packet of arrowroot cookies for the many dogs who enjoyed his company.
Although he was sometimes a man of few words, his acts of kindness and compassion always spoke volumes. Everyone who knew him will miss his friendly smile and unique sense of humor, comedic timing, sharp wit and “dad jokes”.
Dale demonstrated a strong work ethic and attention to detail. He worked many years in Quality Control at Hayes Dana where he spent much of his career. Dale was a true problem solver; his inventive mind paired perfectly with an always-tidy workshop. He was especially proud of the many ways he made his house a welcoming home through his many unique home renovations.
While not much of a world traveller, he found adventure along the shores of Lake Simcoe on evening walks and early morning boat rides. A valued member of the Salvation Army for many years, Dale always looked forward to his yearly trips to Jackson’s Point Salvation Army Camp.
Above all, Dale lived as a gentleman. He had a strong moral compass and was a leader first and foremost through his own example.
In honour of Dale, people are invited to make donations or acts of service to charities that support our community such as Hospice Simcoe www.hospicesimcoe.ca and Barrie Food Bank www.barriefoodbank.org
Linda Potje
Posted on: Friday, June 6, 2025My heartfelt condolences to all Dale’s family. I will miss Dale’s beautiful smile and warm hugs at family gatherings. Rest in peace.
Kim Holder
Posted on: Friday, June 6, 2025Although Tom and I only had the pleasure of knowing Dale for a few years, we will remember him as a quiet but friendly neighbour with a pleasant disposition and a warm smile.
May all your wonderful memories of Dale bring you and your family peace. I know Dale will be missed by many.
Thinking of you,
Kim and Tom
Loretta and Dan Bouillon
Posted on: Friday, June 6, 2025We are so sorry for your loss. We will remember Dale’s kind friendly smile, (one that reached his eyes) and his gentle spirit.
Much love ❤️
Wendy Podlewski
Posted on: Friday, June 6, 2025Hugs and prayers to the all of the family abd friends .
Accurate tellings of a life well lived. Man of few words but his smile, twinkling eyes , gentle disposition and kindness spoke volumes .
Vicki Rodway
Posted on: Friday, June 6, 2025One life lived,
many lives touched.
My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Walter Doret
Posted on: Friday, June 6, 2025So sorry to hear of Dale’s passing. As a former neighbour & friend I always enjoyed our neighbourly ‘chats’ and his infectious smile. My sincere condolences to Sharon.
Dal Gouett
Posted on: Saturday, June 7, 2025I enjoyed Dale”s company anytime we met. He was a true family man and a genuine Christian. Memories of the good times will comfort his family. They can be proud of him.
Carol and Bob Cryer
Posted on: Saturday, June 7, 2025So sorry for your loss. Your obituary is perfect. Dale was always a wonderful gentleman!
Barbara and KenMckeown
Posted on: Saturday, June 7, 2025We have known Dale for many years as a kind , compassionate, gentleman.
The world would be a much better place if there were more people like Dale.
Bruce Flemington
Posted on: Saturday, June 7, 2025I worked with Dale at Dana for 22 years. He was a very kind man and very helpful to me when I started working there. Deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Bruce Flemington,
Barrie, Ontario
Glenn and Gail Gilbert
Posted on: Saturday, June 7, 2025Our condolences to Sharon and her family. As neighbours we always enjoyed our talks when we met up on walks in the neighbourhood. A truly gentle, kind individual.
Glenn and Gail
gladys mckay
Posted on: Saturday, June 7, 2025I will so miss our conversations when Dale came for a haircut. He stood out in his gentle understated way .I will never forget him Sharon I will pray for you and your family Gladys
Margaret Hildebrandt
Posted on: Sunday, June 8, 2025I’m very sorry for you loss Sharon. I was unaware that your husband was ill and feel bad that I didn’t go over to you to ask how you were doing when you joined us at the Manderin. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Richard and Lorie Winik
Posted on: Monday, June 9, 2025Richard and Lorie Winik
So sorry to hear of Dale’s passing. We always enjoyed our talks when the two of you would go for your walks in the neighborhood. He was a kind, soft spoken man with a great smile . Sharon, our condolences go out to you and you will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Kathleen & John Potje
Posted on: Tuesday, June 10, 2025We will miss Dale and his lovely smile. We always enjoyed getting together with him and we give our condolences to Sharon and the family.
Lorie Boucher
Posted on: Wednesday, June 11, 2025I’ve had the pleasure of visiting with Dale and Sharon many times since I met Shawna more than 30 years ago. Dale was always so kind to me, such a gentle and quiet man. We talked about his boat, his family, and the joy of those little maple-leaf-shaped candies he sent me home with after dropping me off at the bus station. He always made me feel very welcome and at home, and I will hold those feelings close every time I remember him. You all have my deepest condolences.
Wayne & Melissa Webb
Posted on: Friday, June 13, 2025A Most Holy mass (@ 4PM, Sun 20 July 2025) will be held for the repose of Uncle Dale’s soul, by the universal church world wide.
Meanwhile, our condolences, thoughts, hearts, prayers and love continue to be with Sharon and all of the beautiful family. We love you all. May the peace of Christ comfort you all at this difficult time and always.
Warren and Corrie De Boer
Posted on: Sunday, June 15, 2025Our sincere condolences to Sharon and family with Dale’s passing to glory. The empty place he left behind is impossible to fill, may the good memories of Dale fill the void. He will be happy at his new address.
Warren and Corrie.
Tara Signorelli
Posted on: Tuesday, June 17, 2025I am very saddened to hear of Dale’s passing. He was a man of few words, but his presence was always warm and welcoming. It was an honor to have known him, even if only a little. Condolences to Sharon, Shelley, and Shawna, and all the others that loved him.
Cal Landet
Posted on: Wednesday, June 18, 2025Just heard today of Dale’s passing. My deep condolences to the family in the loss of Dale. I’ve known Dale since my teenage years and remember many times running around with him in his 61 Chevy or the boat from the Chrysler company when he was doing some testing. Tried to keep in touch over the years, but of course not as much as we would’ve liked. Sorry to see a very good man go as he was very gentle and kind and smart as a whip. Sharon, my deepest condolences as I have just lost my own spouse in the last month or so and know how you must be feeling. God bless you lean on Him