Richard "Butch" G Lafler, Sr.

Richard Gene Lafler, Sr., 77, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family on February 28, 2022.  He was born at home on June 7, 1944 to James M. “Cecil” Lafler and Neva “June” Josephine (Taylor) Lafler.

“Butch,” as he was affectionately known to family and friends, was a lifelong resident of Fulton. As a young man, he served his country in the U.S Navy, after which he returned to the land that would be his treasured home for the rest of his days.

On July 10, 1971, he married the love of his life, Robin Lynn (Bacon), and in July of 2021, they celebrated 50 years of married life, love, and being best friends. Butch’s pure love and devotion for his wife and family are what he will be remembered for the most. Nothing was more important to him than spending his time loving and caring for them all. He was beyond proud of his 5 children, 11 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, who will forever be grateful to have had the most loving and generous father, teacher and friend. 

Known his whole life and career as the guy who could fix anything, he possessed a brilliant sense for anything mechanical. He took great pride in his work as a journeyman, millwright and machinist. He was generous with his knowledge and time, mentoring others and enjoying their success as much as his own.

Among his wonderful qualities were: a great sense of humor, fierce loyalty, profound tenderheartedness and a love of animals. His story telling ability was epic, as was his appreciation for hearing a good story told.

Left to be blessed by his memory are his beloved Robin, five children: Tammy (John) Koupal, Robert G. (Jennifer) Lafler, Jonathon D. Lafler, Richard “Rick” G. (Melissa) Lafler, Jr., Matthew D. (Kayla) Lafler; 11 grandchildren: Michael (Shae), Haley, Abbey (Collin), Paige, Miles, Boone, Jessica, Bobby, Madalyn, Taryn and Inara; three great-grandchildren: Chase, Cash and Willow; goddaughter Molly (Dan) Beale; also several nieces, nephews, and brother Willard (Maisie).  

He is preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter Barbara; two brothers: James Lafler, and Thomas Lafler; and sister, Joan Sleeman. 

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Butch's life will be held on Monday, March 21st, 2022 at 2pm at the Scotts Community Center, 8450 South 36th Street, Scotts, MI 49088. 

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Butch’s guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family, through the funeral home.

The Lafler family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home and Cremation Society, 409 South Main, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.