Charles R. Butler, known affectionately as "Charley," 82, of Galena, MD, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Chestertown Nursing and Rehab in Chestertown, MD. His life was defined by dedication to family, service to his country, and a profound love for the Eastern Shore outdoors.

Born on September 16, 1943, in Easton, MD, to the late Charles and Frances Lane Butler, Charley grew up in Philadelphia, PA, but his summers were spent on his uncle's farm in Easton. It was there that he developed a lifelong passion for farming, fishing, and hunting.

In 1961, Charley proudly served his country by enlisting in the United States Army, completing three years of service, including over two years abroad, before his honorable discharge. Following his service, Charles reconnected with his longtime neighborhood and church acquaintance, Susan Slack. They were married on Valentine's Day in 1966, beginning a devoted partnership that lasted 59 wonderful years.

For nearly four decades, Charley was a respected leader in the Commercial Printing and Publishing industry, working with customers throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.

Though the family resided in the Philadelphia area, starting their family in Delaware County, PA, Charley never lost sight of his goal to return to the Eastern Shore. In 1980, the family purchased a home in Galena, where they spent weekends and holidays, ultimately moving their full-time in 1983. Here, Charley dedicated his time to his passions: deer and waterfowl hunting, fishing, crabbing, and guiding for Goose Valley Hunting & Outfitting. Even while traveling for work, he remained committed to the outdoor community, often helping local farmers and volunteering to certify and mentor young, safe hunters.

Charley was a loving grandfather who took immense joy in his family. He was instrumental in helping to raise two of his grandsons, Christopher and Keith, becoming their devoted transportation provider, their loudest fan at sporting events, and the one who taught them the cherished traditions of hunting and fishing.

Along with his parents, Charles was preceded in death by his son, Charles Keith Butler; his grandson, Wyatt Reagan Butler; and his sisters, Rebecca Wilson and Mary Butler.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Susan Butler; his children, Carrie Paige Butler (Corey Downer) of Galena, MD, and Brian Christopher Butler (Kristine) of Clayton, DE; his brother, Joel Butler of Pennsylvania; and his grandchildren, Christopher Dale Butler, Charles Keith Butler Jr., Charles Jesse Butler, Kyle Kenneth Downer, Kandace Burton Wallace, and Corey Burton.

Charley will be deeply missed, but his memory will be forever cherished by his family and the many friends he made throughout his life.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Charles' memory may be made to: Galena Volunteer Fire Company PO Box 189 Galena MD 21635

arrangements by Galena Funeral Home of Stephen L. Schaech, Galena, MD