Donald G Buttron, passed peacefully at his home in Nortonville into the arms of his Heavenly Father on March 20, 2024. He will be greatly missed by his wife Linda and all who know him.
Donald was born July 1, 1941, to Carl and Verna Button who resided outside of Nortonville at the Kleopper family farm. Donald was baptized into Saint Matthew’s Lutheran Church where he became a life-long member, trustee, treasurer, and elder. He graduated from Nortonville High School in the class of 1959, after which he moved to Lawrence to attend the University of Kansas to pursue a degree in mathematics. One of the many highlights of his college career was meeting the love of his life Linda Buttron (Hemphill). They were married shortly after at Trinity Lutheran Church on June 26, 1966. One year later Don joined the US Air Force and was accepted into pilot training where he served 8 years throughout the Vietnam War. Even after returning Don continued to serve in the Missouri Air National Guard in St. Joseph and was the squadron commander during the Persian Gulf War, retiring a Lieutenant Colonel. During his time in the military Don flew C-130 and KC-135 refueler planes. Locals nearby often remember looking to the sky as Don flew over his home watching over the community below. Don had always envisioned himself returning to the family farm and was able to pursue his love of agriculture and hard work with his brother Ed for over 40 years. Throughout those years he poured his heart and soul into the land, and created a lasting legacy that became a way of life many still admire. Part of that legacy was his heart for service and dedication to those who needed a helping hand. He spent much of his time helping to start the Nortonville food pantry and deliver Christmas gifts to anyone in need, never hopeful for approval or recognition. Don’s unmistakable laugh and contagious smile were with him until the end. His source of unwavering joy and faith has, and will always be, his devotion to the Lord who he now walks hand in hand with into the gates of Heaven.
He is survived by his wife Linda, daughters Kelly (Russ) Jobbins and Kristy (Jeff) Prickett, siblings, Ken (Regina) Buttron, Ed (Linda) Buttron, and Cathy Nichols, and grandchildren Kayla (Austin) Trowbridge, Ty Jobbins, Elle Strother, Aubrey Prickett, Ryker Prickett, and Brody Prickett. He is proceeded in death by his parents Carl and Verna Buttron, brother Bob Buttron, and brother-in-law Carl Nichols. His visitation will be held on March 25, 2024, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and his funeral will be held on March 26, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., both at Saint Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Nortonville. Memorial donations can be made to the Saint Matthew’s Lutheran Endowment Fund or the Wamego Honor Flight.
