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It is with both sorrow and joy that we announce the passing of James Alan Butler, who left this earthly home on December 26, 2025, at the age of 78.
Born on November 9, 1947 to the parents Elenore Leona and Louis E. Butler, in Pueblo, Colorado. Jim, as he was affectionately known, lived a life full of creativity, passion, and love. He was raised alongside his siblings Louis Jr, Donald, and Charles Thomas (Tom). While in school, James was a cheerleader. He was also a competitive swimmer, diver, and gymnast. Jim went on to compete in the US Junior Olympics and also was involved in The Boy Scouts of America where he received his Eagle Scout award. Jim was a graduate of East High School in Pueblo, Colorado
Following high school graduation, Jim attended USC college in Pueblo, Colorado where he majored in Art. He made the decision to enlist in the United States Navy where he served during the Vietnam War. He worked in Special Services and as an Illustrator Draftsman with the Navy Seals.
While in college, Jim met Tesi and it was love at first sight. The two were married November 7, 1974 in Pueblo, Colorado. Jim and Tesi were blessed with five children Kari Lynn, Kristi Lorene, Jamie Ann, James Alan Jr, Brittany Nicole, and Bonus Daughter Nikki Gagliardi. They were happiest spending time with their children and grandchildren, traveling, and being together. Jim was a very present Dad who loved being involved in the kids' activities. Becoming Papa to his grandchildren was his favorite role of all.
Jim worked in oil and gas with Feather Petroleum and Evergreen Oil for many years. Later in life, he managed several convenience stores, managed a jewelry store, and finally retired. This is where he found his favorite passion in wood carving. James was known for his craftsmanship and would travel to shows selling his pieces. He was a jokester with his family, a man of faith, and a loyal friend who will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
James is survived by his wife of 51 years Theresa (Tesi) Butler; daughter Kari Oborn and husband Dave; daughter Kristi Bernal and husband Mike; daughter Jamie Garcia; daughter Brittany Luckenbill and husband Nathanael; daughter Nikki Gagliardi and husband Darren; grandchildren Joshua Oborn, Danielle Stubbe and husband Zach, Jessica Way and husband Dylan, Andrew Bernal, Alex Garcia, Savanah Reece, Riley Luckenbill, Skylar Luckenbill, Dakota Luckenbill, Masyn Luckenbill, Wyatt Luckenbill, (LJ) James Alan Butler III, Nikki Butler, Braylon Gagliardi, and Brandon Gagliardi; great grandchildren Sarah Oborn, Tiffany Oborn, Zoey Oborn, Payton Way; brother Lou Butler and wife Glenna; brother Tom Butler and wife Carol; brother Don Butler and wife Lynn; along with his extended family and friends who loved him dearly.
James is preceded in death by his parents Elenore Leona and Louis E. Butler; son James Alan Butler II; grandson Anthony Joseph Garcia; and great grandson Oliver Way.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Alan (Butler) Butler, please visit our floral store.