William R. "Butch" Edgerton, a beloved family man and respected community member, passed away gently on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 in Dunkirk at the age of 77.
Born on April 13, 1946, in Chicago to Richard and Mabel McCown Edgerton, Butch lived a life characterized by dedication to his loved ones and service to his country and community.
A committed husband to his wife, Ivis for 53 beautiful years, Butch was a loving father to his daughter, Christina Edgerton. He took immense joy in his role as a grandfather, imparting wisdom, laughter, and cherished memories to his grandchildren Jaden, Aliyah, Damien and Dante.
He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Margaret Edgerton; and several nieces who will remember him fondly. Butch's presence will be missed by all who knew him, including the friends and family left to cherish his memory following the passing of his brother, Stanley Edgerton and his parents.
A true embodiment of hard work and perseverance, Butch graduated from Fredonia Central Schools in 1964 and later earned a business degree from Jamestown Community College. He honored his country by serving in the U.S. Navy from 1969 to 1971. His professional career spanned decades, including dedicated service at Alumax Extrusions in Dunkirk before retiring from Welch Foods in North East, PA plant after 18 years.
Butch's interests and contributions to society were as wide-ranging as his personality. As a lifetime member of the American Legion Brocton Post 434 and the Brocton Fire Department, he exemplified lifelong service. His passion for sports was apparent to all; he played all sports in high school and continued to play baseball throughout his life. A die-hard Buffalo Bills and Cleveland Indians fan, Butch's enthusiasm led him to attend all the Buffalo Bills' Super Bowls in the 1990s. Laughter filled his home as he enjoyed sitcoms and treasured moments spent with his family -- especially playing baseball with his oldest grandson.
Butch's legacy is one of enduring love, unwavering commitment, and a vibrant spirit that enriched the lives of everyone around him. His memory will be carried forward, held deeply in the hearts of those he touched.
Relatives and friends may visit the Morse Funeral Home, 51 Highland Avenue in Brocton on Sunday, April 14 from 1:00-4:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Monday, April 15 at 11:00 AM. Military honors will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery in Fredonia.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brocton Fire Department.
