Joshua David Butler

Joshua David Butler, 36, passed away unexpectedly on March 21, 2026, at Bronson Battle Creek, surrounded by family and friends.

Josh was born in Phoenix, Arizona, on April 17, 1989, Josh grew up in Battle Creek, Michigan. He attended St. Joseph Preschool, Pennfield Schools, Doris Klaussen Developmental Center, and the ATP program. He worked at Pennfield Family Fare supermarket and enjoyed all of his work family there. Josh also volunteered with the Arc of Calhoun County and attended Alternative Choices in Battle Creek.

Josh loved riding his bike through the neighborhood, shooting baskets, hanging out with friends, listening to music, and watching sports either on TV or in person. Another favorite activity of his was driving (and crashing!) semi trucks on his computer. Josh made friends absolutely everywhere he went, with a smile so big it almost broke his face in two. He was always laughing, and would be willing to do anything for anyone at any time.

He is survived by and will be dearly missed by his mom, Kay Butler, and family Danielle, Ashley, Jean, Alison, Carl, Deon, Terrance, Michael, Trevor, MaryLynn (Mike) Shepard, Peter (Sara) Silkworth, David (Tayna) Silkworth, Steven Silkworth, Lexi and Cody Shepard, Gracie and Shawn Grant, Amanda Silkworth ; grandparents Cliff and Karen Butler of Ohio; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. His passing will also leave a huge hole in the lives of his close friend Ray White and numerous family caregivers through the years.

Josh was predeceased by his grandparents, Emma Lou Coleman; and Cyrus (Papa) and Linda (Grammy) Silkworth, sister Katie Butler, and uncle Dennis Butler.

The family will receive friends for visitation Friday, March 27 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., where a service to celebrate his life will be held Saturday, March 28 at 11:00 a.m. The service will be livestreamed at https://vimeo.com/event/5822562?fl=so&fe=fs. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Butler Family Care 456 East Sunset Blvd. Battle Creek, MI 49017. Personal messages and memories may be shared at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.