Eric Reese Butler, 75, of Custer, SD, passed away November 15th, 2024.  Eric was born June 9th, 1949, in Lincoln, Nebraska to parents, Sidney Reed and Ferne Irene (Chapman) Butler. He graduated from Oregon State University with a Degree in Forestry and Engineering.

Eric met Linda in 1998 in Spokane, WA at Kinkos.  They were married in 2004 in an outdoor setting at a dear friend's home. Over their twenty years of marriage they lived in Spokane, WA, Williston, ND, and in 2020 they moved to Custer. A lifelong dream was achieved when they built their log cabin which was perfectly set in the Black Hills. Eric designed their home with attention to every detail. Observing nature was a daily joy – deer, turkeys, bunnies and birds; they all visited Eric and Linda.

Eric and Linda loved Jesus. They attended Abundant Life and Living Outreach churches.They were involved with Bible Study. In the Custer community, Eric was involved with Christian motorcycle association (CMA), Custer VFW, Custer Chamber and positions of responsibility within their housing development.

Family was very important to Eric. In addition to morning prayers for family and friends, numerous road trips occurred to visit family in the Pacific NW.

Eric was extremely intelligent, kind, friendly to all, a wonderful friend, and the kindest husband Linda could ever hope for.   Eric always had a smile on his face, would wave to everyone while driving, and was a great conversationalist.

He is survived by his wife, Linda of Custer; sons, Cameron Brayton of WA, Darryl (Kiersten) Northcraft of MN; Grandchildren, Crystal (Parker) Weber; Melody Brayton; Tyler (Tasia) Brayton, Wilson and Laura Northcraft; great grandchildren Xela, Landon, Liam, Amiyah, KeAndre and Elaina. Brother In Laws, Dwight (Diana) Brayton and Bill (Evett) Brayton; Sister in Law, Darice (Paul McShane) Brayton.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Custer VFW, Living Outreach Church, Compassion in Jesus' name (Aneudys has been sponsored by Eric and Linda for the last two years), Custer VFW, CMA, Custer 4th of July Celebration.

Eric and Linda's love for community, friends and family will never cease.

Visitation will be held 1:00 p.m., Friday, November 22, 2024, at Living Outreach Church in Custer, SD with funeral service following at 2:00 p.m.

Committal services will be held at Pringle Cemetery in Pringle, SD, immediately after the funeral service.