Charles J. Butera Obituary – Death: New Hanover Volunteer Fire & Rescue Services Worker, Charles J. Butera Passes Away
Charles J. Butera Obituary: Charles “Chuck” J. Butera Jr., 78, of Gilbertsville, PA, went home to be with His Lord and Saviour on October 27, 2023. Born in Philadelphia, PA, on December 19, 1944, Chuck was the son of the late Charles J. Butera Sr. and Irene M. (Giangiulio) Butera.
Chuck graduated from Monsignor Bonner High School and proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Growing up, he worked many hours for his family’s businesses, Ardmore Recreation, and as an operating engineer for his father’s company, Charles Butera, Inc. He developed a passion for bowling, hard work, and perseverance and took great pride in operating heavy equipment and vehicles.
Chuck was a valued member of New Hanover Fire and Rescue Services in Gilbertsville. Throughout the years, not only did Chuck love the fire house, the people, and his community, he also found much joy in other activities such as golfing, boating, and mowing the lawn. Over the years, Chuck became an active and faithful member of Hope Community Church, wholeheartedly contributing to various church activities and initiatives.
It was no surprise that Chuck passed away from a heart attack; his heart was overflowing with generosity, kindness, and love for those around him. Chuck spent his entire life with family, friends, and members of the community, and we take comfort in the fact that he was, above all else, incredibly loved. His memory and playful nature will forever reside in the hearts of all those lives he touched.
Chuck is lovingly remembered by his wife, Janet Butera; his daughters, Caroline (& the late Tom Frank) Butera-Frank, Deborah (& Chuck) Palazzolo, Laura (& Russell Belton) Butera, and Maryann (& Gavin Kelly) Butera; Janet’s daughter, Jill (& Todd) Renninger; his grandchildren, Alixandra Tate, Nicholas Palazzolo, Michael Palazzolo, Stephen Palazzolo, Severino (& Amanda) Butera-Addesso, Neive Kelly, Nathaniel Belton, Gideon Belton, Elliot Renninger, Tenrick Renninger, Greyson Renninger, Chancellor Smith, Mya Smith, and Gryffin Smith; his great-grandson, Liam Butera; and his brothers, James (& Lee) Butera and Robert (& Linda) Butera. Chuck was predeceased by Janet’s sons, Matthew Smith and Jason Smith, and his sister, Joanne Folgia-Butera.