William P. Butkus

William Paul Butkus, 78, a devoted educator, coach, cherished father, grandfather, and brother passed away peacefully on September 21st.

For 33 years, Bill dedicated himself to School District 155 as an English teacher and coach, shaping the minds and character of generations of students. Coaching was more than a job to him — it was a calling — and he found particular joy in coaching girls basketball, where he was as invested in his players' growth off the court as on it. Former students and players remember him fondly not only for his teaching, but for his impeccably timed one-liners and bone-dry sarcasm, a wit so sharp and so consistent that it became something of a legend among those who knew him.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janet D. Butkus (née Hauck); his favorite son-in-law, Eric Lemke; and his parents, Alfred and Anne Butkus. He was one of seven children.

He is survived by his daughter, Nancy Lemke (née Butkus), and his grandsons, Dylan and Chase Lemke, who carry forward his memory and, no doubt, a healthy appreciation for a well-placed one-liner.

Bill will be remembered as a die-hard Bears/ Cubs/ Bulls fan, lover of travel, and a man whose humor could disarm a room without anyone quite realizing how he did it. He leaves behind a legacy of wit, wisdom, and quiet dedication that touched countless lives throughout his years in education and beyond.

As Bill would say “Listen up sports fans, it’s not rocket science”. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the many students and athletes whose lives he shaped.

Visitation will be on October 3 from 10 AM to 1:30 with a short service to follow. A luncheon from 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM will be held at The Ellery, 406 W Woodstock St, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name can be made to Coe College Women's Basketball, Donate Online