Tom was born at home on West Pikes Peak Avenue in Colorado Springs to Michael J. Butler and Beulah (Lolcama) Butler. He passed away in Quartzsite, AZ, while at home being cared for by his wife of 51 years, Judith (Swanigan) Butler. Tom and Judy met in Washington D.C. where he was with the F.B.I. When the opportunity presented itself, due to job situations, they returned to Tom's home town of Cripple Creek. A number of months were spent in Cripple Creek, including being the "extra cop" during the summer. In September 1964, he joined the Colorado Springs Police Department where he served for 26 years, retiring as a (Sgt) homicide detective. Tom would be referred to by his fellow officers as "A hell of a good cop who served the community with pride."--the ultimate compliment for their profession. He was a long time member and past President of the Police Protective Association, and served on the Honor Guard. Following his retirement from the CSPD, and a short "vacation," Tom was back to work again, spending some years with the RAP delivery service. When he decided he could "really" retire, he and Judy pulled up their roots and became full time RVers, finally settling in Quartzsite, AZ where wonderful friendships developed. These were a wonderful support during the 1 1/2 years of Tom's illness. Both long time and lesser time friends were amazing. Tom and Judy raised and he is survived by 3 sons, Thomas Michael of FL, Scott of CA and Robert of Colorado Springs, as well as a grandson, Zachary of AZ. Also surviving are grandchildren Olivia and Sam of CA, brother Ron (CSPD retired) and sister Bonnie King of Colorado Springs, nephews, nieces and more friends than could possibly be mentioned. Everyone has been an important part of Tom's life. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother "Bill." Memorial services are being planned for the summer--to be determined at a later date. Online condolences to http://obits.gazette.com/obituaries/gazette/
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Sorry for your loss. Our thoughts & prayers are with you All!
Always enjoyed working with Tom at PPA Bingo. And love running into Ron.
Cindy (Delaney) Terry & Glenn Delaney
February 11, 2013
Your light will shine forever through the love of your family and friends.
Bonnie King & Ron Butler
February 5, 2013
Tom was a excellent police officer and role model. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Butler family. Ron and Bonnie we extend our sympathy and we will keep you in our prayers
Ken and Carol Bayens
February 1, 2013
Tom was a great police officer, friend and mentor. He will be greatly missed.
Larry Kraus
January 30, 2013
I have wonderful memories of working for Tom in SACS during the late 70's. His great personality, quick wit, and admirable leadership skills made it a pleasure to go to work each day. He will be missed by many. God bless you and your family during this difficult time.
Ken Fiorillo
January 30, 2013
To Tom M and your family, you have my deepest sympathy. If there is anything I can do please let me know.
Larry Marshall
January 30, 2013
Our sympathy to Judy and family. It was a pleasure to have been associated with Tom and family. We spent many a time talking about old times in Colorado Springs at our Holiday Rambler camping get-to-gethers. Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Joyce & Bernie Clements
January 29, 2013
I knew Tom during my entire career as a CSPD officer & he was my patrol sergeant for two years. He was the greatest sergeant I ever had & even a better friend & human being! His wife, & brother Ron & family are in my prayers!
Terry Grace
January 29, 2013
Simple words cannot begin to describe what a great cop & man Tom Butler was & is! I pray that his memory & God's comforting grace will provide peace to his wife & family during this very difficult time!
Guy Grace
January 29, 2013
I first met Tom when I joined the police department in 1970. I have many fond memories of him both as a patrolman and a Sgt.
He was easy to talk to and was always there for us. He taught us how to really be a police officer and what it meant. They don't make them like Tom any more. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Ron Webb
January 29, 2013
I met Tom in 1972 and worked for him for several years during my 20 years on the department. He was a great Sgt. and a better man. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and with his brother Ron. God Bless you Tom. You will be missed. Greg Skiba
January 28, 2013
Tom, you were truly a special person. A special friend, Sgt. and mentor rolled into one. It was our privilege and honor to have known you and to have you in our lives. God Bless you and your family
Larry & Cheryl Henry
January 27, 2013
Tom, was a good friend. I met Tom when I joined the EPSO, and he mentored me for several years. he even sold me his matched pair of S&W model 32 revolvers, so I would have a "good gun for my duties as a deputy. Even had some great after shift parties wuth Tom and others @ the Golden Bee. Go with God's speed brother, you were a GREAT OFFICER.
Chaplain Michael Collins
January 27, 2013
What a wonderful Great man he was!! He will be missed by many. Rest in Peace !!
Butch Quigley
January 27, 2013
Tom was a true friend and a model police officer. RIP
My thoughts and prayers are with the Butler family.
Sue McElhaney-Lew
January 27, 2013
RIP Tom. I always enjoyed working with you.
Dave Smith
January 27, 2013
One of the best Sergeants for all time. Sarge was our first Sgt for us new rookies he taught us many things but most of all he taught us service and respect. God Bless and RIP
Bobby Swain
January 27, 2013
Dear Judy. Just read about Tom's death. Please know I am thinking of you.
Nancy Page Craft
January 21, 2013
Tom has laid his burden down Judy. He will be remembered with all of our love and fond memories.
Delores Hall
January 17, 2013
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