Spearfish--Bryce Butler, age 79, formerly of Faith, South Dakota, died early Tuesday morning, August 16, 2005 at Dorsett Health Care Center in Spearfish.

He was born October 5, 1925 in Faith to Theodore and Nettie Reed Butler. Bryce spent his early life on the family ranch near Faith and received his education at the country schools in the area.

He was married to Shirley Jean Vojta at Fort Pierre on July 20, 1944. The couple returned to the family ranch and spent the next 61 years together. Upon retirement, the couple moved to Spearfish.

Bryce was engaged in livestock and grain farming with a focus on cattle feeding his entire life. He was a charter member of the National Cattlemen's Association and other organizations advancing the interest of wheat and cattle producers. He was a member of the VFW and American Legion. His principal civic interests were the Faith Stock Show Association and the Faith Country Development Corporation. He had a particular interest in helping ambitious young people of ability and promise. He is remembered with gratitude by those receiving his counsel and support.

He is survived by his wife Shirley Jean Butler at the family home in Spearfish; by one sister, Betty Jo (Drew) Sutfin, Spearfish and a sister in law, Lavonne Butler, Faith. Also by a niece Linda Sutfin Walker and four nephews; Dick and Jim Butler and David and Bob Sutfin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Francis Butler Culbertson: two brothers, Theodore Jr. and W. Elmer Butler.

Visitation will be at the Faith Community Center on Friday Morning from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Funeral service will follow at 10:00 am with Pastor Harold Delbridge officiating. Burial will follow at 2:00 pm at Black Hills National Cemetery, Sturgis SD.
Memorials have been established for the South Dakota Cancer Society and the South Dakota Special Olympics.