I was born to Al and Jean Butzine on June 28, 1965, in Dodge City, Kansas, located in Ford County. (My favorite brand of truck.) My sister, Jeanine “Kid”, was my favorite sibling. (And only.)
I died July 2, 2014 in Red Feather Lakes, on the ranch I was caretaker of. I loved this land and everything about it was HOME.
I moved to Red Feather Lakes in 1993 and owned/operated Jerry’s Towing for 19 years. I liked doing recoveries the most. (Each one was a new puzzle.) It was a fun 20 years on the Red Feather Lakes Volunteer Fire Department too. I loved fire and it was a blast to work fire scenes. I also took my ambulance duties seriously and was proud to help people. It made me feel good to know I was a positive part of my community.
I loved working, camping, hunting, beer, music (Lynyrd Skynyrd), and woodworking (my passion).
To my sons, Jessie and James, I love you and am proud of the young men you are. I am so thankful for each of you.
To my wife, Janine, of 22 years, I was able to have the life I loved and be the man I was (owner of a lot of toys, able to do the things I loved, and be very happy) because of you. Thank you. I love you more than I was ever able to tell you.
I had a great life! I died having no regrets. What a wonderful thing that is.
— Jerry
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A good man who served his family and community with love, honor and courage. An honor to know this fine man. You left us way too soon Jerry. You taught me more than you ever knew. I thank you for that. You live on in your boys and the love for you by your family. Well done.
Jerry was my VBBB, (Very Best Building Buddy). There is not a room, wall, or section of this building that does not have Jerry’s memory in it. Jerry and I worked so well together, he could be handing me the next tool or board before I even knew I needed it. I will always remember Jerry and I will miss him for the rest of my life.
Every picture I have of Jerry, he is smiling. Not a photo smile, but a genuine one. Every picture I have of Jerry, he is wearing a baseball cap and blue jeans. If Jerry had gone bald, I wouldn’t have known it. Every Christmas party, Jerry recommended the best drink, which is important, because I don’t drink except at the Christmas party. I remember the first time Jerry and Janine came to my house in Fairplay( about 21 years ago). It was cold and snowy. Jerry pulled off the side of the road in the subdivision, to call me for directions.He promptly slid off the road and Louie had to pull him out. We laughed because it was NOT a Ford, but ours was. Maybe that is why he likes Ford’s, OR maybe that was the beginning of his towing experience. When I think of Jerry, I see him wrestling with his boys, always laughing, and always being amiable. I will miss him. Thank you Jerry for sharing your life with us. Love….