Obituary of Kenneth R. Butler

Dr. Kenneth Rupert Butler MD, FRCPS, RCAF January 7, 1921 - December 14, 2013 In October, 2013 he was predeceased by the love of his life and wife of 63 years, Eleanor Elizabeth (nee Riley). Dear father of Susan (Thom Ronaldson), Geoffrey (Pat) and Peter (Fabiola). Wonderful inspiration, mentor and grandfather to Patrick (Doreen) and Adam Ronaldson, Jocelyn and Michael Butler, and adored great-grandfather to Brandon and Nathan Ronaldson. Ken was born, raised and lived in Toronto. Shortly after graduation from Malvern Collegiate, he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force where he was trained in the relatively new science of radar technology. From 1939 to 1945, Ken served his country at home and overseas. After demobilization at war's end, he attended the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto, class of 5T0. The Arch. Hutchison Fellowship took him and his family to Switzerland in 1954 to further his studies in the field of Haematology, the Department of which he went on to head at St Michael's Hospital from 1967 to 1982. He was then the first Director and driving force behind the development of the excellent Palliative Care Unit at St. Michael's, a position he held until his retirement in 1991. Concurrent with his 35-year career at St. Mike's, Ken was an Associate Professor of Medicine at U of T. This thorough and diligent scientist was a highly respected teacher of and mentor to generations of physicians. High praise from his administrative and nursing staff, and the gratitude of his patients, also attest to his considerate and caring approach. Ken's devotion to his family was unsurpassed. He was an active participant in both his children's and grandchildren's growth and development, taking pride and pleasure in all their accomplishments. His care for extended family and friends crossed all generations, and profoundly affected the lives of all. His kindness and patience knew no limits. His plethora of interests included sailing (RCYC), cooking, a well-turned phrase, painting, photography, calligraphy, travel, skiing, reading, cars, golfing (The Toronto Hunt), bridge, and computer graphic design. He was also an active member in the Church of St. Aidan. Ken was a man of great intellect whose passion for learning never diminished, and whose quest for knowledge never ceased. This dignified and distinguished gentleman set a standard of personal and professional conduct that all who knew him will never forget. The family is grateful for the fine care provided by the staff of the medical services of St. Michael's Hospital. Thanks also go to Integracare and caregivers Cora, Jose, Joseph, Alma, Joy, Agnes and Robbie, all of whom provided such wonderful support in recent months. The family will receive friends at the HUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME A.W. MILES CHAPEL LIMITED, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville Avenue) on Wednesday, December 18th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., and at the CHURCH OF ST. AIDAN, 70 Silverbirch Avenue on Thursday, December 19th from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow at THE TORONTO HUNT. Interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery on Friday, December 20th at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Michael's Hospital Foundation or the Church of St. Aidan. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.