Harlan Lee Butler

Harlan Lee Butler was born February 1, 1960 in Atchison, Kansas to Edgar Warren and Elizabeth Ellen Butler. He passed away in Norman, Oklahoma on October 23, 2019.

Harlan married his wife and friend, Kelley Buchanan, on October 10, 1986 in Norman, where the couple made their home and raised their daughter, Casey.

Harlan became a stay at home dad when Casey was born and, along with her mother, was awed at the woman she has become. He would never hesitate to tell anyone she was his best work, and he was always proud of her and her many accomplishments. At the time of his passing, while primarily retired, he worked part time delivering trucks with a great group of guys, sharing stories and adventures. Harlan loved all things mechanical, especially cars, namely the 1967 VW Magic Hippie Bus, and, more recently, his electric bicycle. He truly could do anything and, although it might take him a minute to finish the job, noted by a few unfinished projects, his work was second to none, his eye for detail unmatched. When asked why he was so slow, he would always say, “if I finish everything, Kelley won’t need me anymore”. If only he realized how wrong he was.

One of Harlan’s greatest passions was the Canadian River Cruiser’s Car Club, which he helped found in 2008 and remained an integral member of until his passing. He so enjoyed the Saturday Morning Coffees, the parties, and most especially the car shows. He would plan for months, working on details, making sure his sound system was right, including a large dose of Jimmy Buffett music, and watching the weather hoping for a great day. He loved everyone getting together, sharing their cars, and the donations the club could make to Food and Shelter for Friends, something that brought him great joy.

More than anything, Harlan loved spending time with his family & friends. He will be remembered for his great laugh, constant smile and generous heart. Harlan, a man who lived life to the fullest, left too quickly and too soon, taking Kelley’s heart with him, but we find peace in Harlan’s belief that upon passing you go to a better place and watch out for those you left behind, and for that we are eternally grateful.

Survivors include his wife, Kelley Butler, and daughter Casey of the home; brother David Butler & wife Kathy of Atchison, Kansas; niece Shari Roth & husband Chad; nephew Greg Butler and wife Tanya; sister-in-law Kristen Fernandes & husband Christopher of Flower Mound, Texas; and his niece, Katy and nephew, C.J. He was preceded in death by his parents Ed and Betty Butler and a brother, Steve Butler.