"Brad and Jenny made it possible for Carol and I to make our dream of having horses possible. They taught us so much and were trusted and generous friends. Our hearts and prayers go out to Jenny and the family. Brad was a good man who rode tall in the saddle. Tom and Carol Colvin"
In loving memory of
Brad B. Butler
December 15, 1960 - December 7, 2021
Brad Burton Butler, 60, of Baxter, IA, died on Tuesday, December 7th, 2021, at the UIHC. The family will hold a private burial. A celebration of Brad's life will be scheduled for summer 2022.
Brad was born on December 15th, 1960, in Cedar Rapids, IA, to Burton Butler and Marilyn Handorf Butler.
Brad became an Eagle Scout in 1975. He was active in 4-H and exhibited at and judged many horse shows. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School, Cedar Rapids in 1979 and Iowa State University in 1984 where he was active in the Block and Bridle Horse Club and Rodeo Club.
He established Tri-B Farm in Ankeny in 1986, providing horse boarding and riding lessons to many. He was employed by the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) in Ankeny since 1988 as Supervisor of Grounds and Transportation. He relocated to the family farm in Baxter in 2020.
Brad married Jenny Reetz on June 25th, 2003 at the Nemo Community Church in Nemo, South Dakota. They enjoyed a week of trail riding.
Brad is survived by his wife, Jenny, and 5 children: Brandt Baxter Butler; Brashton, Amaysha and Miley Butler; and Loren Kimpling Gilliam. He is also survived by his parents, Burton and Marilyn Butler of Cedar Rapids, and sister, Bryn Butler Hayes (Paul) and their children, Bryton and Brylie Hayes of Cedar Rapids.
Brad was an amazing man of God who devoted his life to serving others. He had many friends and lived life to the fullest. He leaves a legacy of being a caring, compassionate, hardworking and kind husband, father, son, sibling and friend. He was a servant of the Lord, evidenced by his generosity and relationships as well as his commitment to maintaining the farm and his career. Brad will be remembered as the man everyone wanted to be - an amazing person.
Tributes
"There just are no words. My childhood was spent with Brad and so many others at the Horse shows. So many wonderful fun memories. Seven day run was always good for a few. Brad will be missed. Prayers for everyone- Kristin Miller Ludvicek "
"Our prayers and sympathies are extended to the friends and family of Brad Butler."
"Many fond memories of Brad. My condolences to his family. Julie Bailey, Redfield, IA"
"There were many happy times around IJQHA when Brad was around! My deepest sympathy to all of his family members. He has gone too soon, and I pray for you to find comfort in a lifetime of memories. Cathi (Clark) Luett"
"I have been so shocked and saddened to learn of Brad?s passing. I was lucky enough to know Brad his whole DMACC life. He was an asset to DMACC and to all that knew him. He will leave a void for all of us. Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends. He will be sorely missed. Brenda Hickle "
"Our prayers and sympathies are extended to the family and friends of Brad Butler."
"Jen and family. I am so sorry to hear of Brads sudden trauma and passing. You are in our thoughts and continuous prayers. Many hugs! Take one moment, one step, one day at a time. Lean on family and friends. We are here for you! "