Donald L. Butler

Age 88 of Sinton, Texas, formerly of Wilmington, Illinois, died Monday, June 22, 2026 at his residence.

Born February 1, 1938 in Bloomington, Illinois, Donald Levi was a son of Levi and Lucy (Brown) Butler. He was raised and educated in Wilmington where he graduated from Wilmington High School with the Class of 1956. Donald attended Joliet Junior College and served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1959. On June 4, 1960, he married Carol Wilkens in Wilmington, where they continued to live and raise their family.

Donald was employed with Sheffield Steel in Joliet, Illinois for over 30 years and was a member of the Steelworkers Union. He also enjoyed volunteering at the Rialto Square Theatre for 25 years. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Wilmington, and in his free time he took great pleasure in travelling and being a wine connoisseur. Donald was a patient man who loved his family dearly, and though he is now gone there is comfort in the fact that he is reunited with his wife, Carol.

He was a good man whose greatest joy in life was his family. A devoted father, loving husband, and loyal friend, he was always there with a helping hand, wise advice, or a comforting smile. Donald cherished time spent with those he loved, creating memories that will be treasured forever. He had a passion for travel and enjoyed exploring new places, cultures, and experiences. Whether discovering a new destination or sharing a bottle of fine wine with family and friends, he found happiness in life's simple pleasures and in the company of those he loved most. His kindness, generosity, sense of humor, and unwavering love for his family defined the life he lived. Donald leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Donald is survived by his three children: Janet Serena of Chatsworth, Illinois, Julie (John) Harris of Sinton, Texas, and Gary (Jennifer) Butler of Princeton, Illinois; grandchildren: John (Brittney) Serena, Maria Serena, Bonnie (Chris) Thomas, Corey (Leah) Harris, Amanda (Mikey) Summers, Tyler (Veronica) Harris, and Alexis Butler (Max Rudoi); and great grandchildren: Meadow DeMarse, Luke Serena, Kiley Phillips, Ruby Harris, Parker Harris, Persephone Harris, and Reagan Rudoi; and his sister-in-law: Marian Irvin.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents and wife; one son in infancy, and two brothers: Charles and Herman Butler.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington on Friday, July 10, 2026 from 12:00 p.m. until time of funeral service at 3:00 p.m. Reverend Mike Engle will officiate. 

Following the service Donald will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery in Wilmington.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Donald's memory to First Presbyterian Church, 301 North Kankakee Street, Wilmington, IL 60481 or Uplifted Care Hospice, 482 Main Street NW, Bourbonnais, IL 60914.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Donald’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-476-2181)