Burl 'Butch' Brown, Jr., died September 23, 2023, at Medicalodges, Goddard, KS. He was born September 2, 1946, in Hawthorne, CA, to Burl William Brown, Sr., and Marie Irene Edna (Poirier) Brown.  Butch married Patricia Lynn (Stutesman) Hunt in Nickerson, KS.  She died June 23, 2014.  He enjoyed being outside working on the lawn, doing mechanic work, and fixing things.

Butch joined the United States Navy in 1964 and was honorably discharged after serving five years.  He was a Special Ops, Fireman Marine and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal.  After leaving the military, Butch worked for General Electric as a mechanic and welder.  He also worked for Reno County repairing roads and bridges.  Butch then became a foster parent at the end of his career.  He had a passion for being a member of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry 32nd Degree and Kansas York Rite for more than fourteen years.

Butch is survived by:  his daughter, Katie Ladewig; granddaughter, Rachel Stacy; sons, Howard, James, and Larry Rakestraw; and daughter, Stephanie Brown.

He was preceded in death by: his parents; wife; sister, Anna Marie Brown; and daughter, Arlena Rakestraw.

Private services are planned.  Cremation has taken place.

Memorials are suggested to the Burl W. Brown, Jr. Memorial Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.