Michael Butch Sr. 1931-2024

He was born in Youngstown, on June 24, 1931, the son of William and Edith Butch. A proud 1950 graduate of East High School, Mike went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in education at Youngstown College.

After serving his country in the U.S. Navy, Mike returned home to educate and coach for 44 years in the Youngstown City Schools. He was a devout Catholic and a lifelong member of St. Christine Parish.

Mike spent the past 65 years with the love of his life, Patricia. They were married Aug. 22, 1959, and had three children together. He will be remembered lovingly by his family: daughter, Edie (Joe) Bettura; son, Michael (Ginny) Butch; son-in-law, Bam D’Alesio; and five grandchildren, Erika (Colin) McNulty, Tricia (Matt) Matune, Donald (Emily) D’Alesio, Elaina (Phil) Martauz and Michael Butch. He was also blessed with five great-grandchildren, Audrianna Matune, Grace McNulty, Joseph Matune, Mark Matune and Wesley Martauz.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Elaine D’Alesio; and brother, Dominic (Evelyn) Butch.

Mike lived every day to its fullest, whether he was on the golf course, enjoying coffee with friends at McDonald’s or trying his luck at the casino. He was a proud supporter of all his grandchildren and loved spending time with family, sharing countless stories. Mike had a passion for gardening, canning peppers and making pizzelles for any occasion. He also enjoyed playing cards with family and friends, especially at his yearly Super Bowl parties.

Mike officiated high school football, basketball, volleyball and track for over 25 years. He was selected for multiple playoff assignments, including OHSAA regional basketball and football tournaments. Mike reached the pinnacle of his officiating career when he was selected to work multiple state football championships. Also, he was honored to be assigned to the North vs. South All-Star game.

Mike was an instructor for the OHSAA basketball officiating class, a clock operator for Youngstown State football and a scorekeeper for the Youngstown State men’s and women’s basketball teams. He was instrumental in developing and implementing a five-man football officiating crew in the City Series and Steel Valley Conference. Mike was a mentor to his students and players, teaching them invaluable life lessons about resilience, teamwork and integrity.

Over the course of his life, Mike achieved numerous awards. He was proud to receive a key to the City of Youngstown from Mayor Tito Brown in 2022. Some of his other achievements include Distinguished Service Award for the National Federation of Interscholastic Officials Hall of Fame, OHSAA Hall of Fame, Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame, member of the executive board of the Mahoning Valley Coaches Association, secretary / treasurer for the Mahoning Valley Basketball Officials Association, member of the Northeast District Over-All-Board of the OHSAA past president and vice president, Steel Valley Conference Commissioner and Youngstown City Series Commissioner.

The family of Michael Butch would like to extend a special thank you to his wonderful caretakers, Michele, Carmel, Joellen and Judy, and to Dr. Wilkins for always going above and beyond. We will be forever grateful for their kindness, compassion and love.

Family and friends may pay their respects 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, at St. Christine Parish, 3165 S. Schenley Ave., Youngstown, OH 44511, with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11 a.m.

Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home is handling the arrangements for the family.

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