Michael David Butler, beloved son, father, uncle and friend, went to be with the Lord on August 13, 2013.

Mike was born on Galveston Island on June 6, 1959 to Betty Lou and C.J. Butler. He was a lifelong resident of Galveston and graduated from O’Connell High School. All who knew Mike will forever remember his kind heart and the way he would go out of his way to help others. He loved his sons unconditionally and always put them first above his own needs, and he took great care of his family. He would lend a hand (and his heart) to anyone in need, and he always offered sound advice and support to his family and friends. He had a great sense of humor and a laugh that always made everyone with him laugh too.

Growing up, Mike was an avid fisherman, hunter and loved to play basketball. Fishing the South Jetty and on Charter Boats in the Gulf led him to his career in the professional sport fishing industry. He obtained his Masters license at a young age and eventually became well known throughout the sport fishing community as an accomplished Captain. Mike had an outstanding work ethic and won many sought after billfish tournament titles throughout his career (most recently in 2011, the coveted Poco Bueno while fishing on the Bella Donna). Over the past 30 years, he traveled to multiple foreign ports, spending many seasons in Mexico, the Bahamas and Costa Rica. He eventually moved to Los Suenos Costa Rica and for the past 5 years he provided countless exciting fishing experiences for his friends and clients.

Mike fought a heroic battle against cancer over the past year and a half. His Christian faith, positive attitude and strength throughout his illness were an inspiration to his family, friends and all of those who cared for him. He was a constant source of support and showed compassion and care for others even in his toughest of times. Throughout his battle, his mother (who we are convinced is an Angel) and his sons and family were by his side. Now he is resting in Heaven without pain or worry.

He is preceded in death by his brothers, Ronald and Charles Butler, his grandmother Betty Watkins, and great grandmother Ruth (Mimi) Berthold.

He is survived by “His Boys:” Jordan, Ross, and Kyle; his parents, Betty Lou and C.J.; sisters, Joanne Lackey (Kase) and Diane Callahan (Ronnie); longtime girlfriend in Costa Rica, Olga Diez; her daughter, Tatiana; lifelong friend, Kirk Elliot (Theresa); niece and side kick, Katy Lackey; and numerous nieces ,nephews, and good friends.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held at The Galveston Yacht Basin “Yacht Club” on August 31st at 5:00 pm. Deacon Sam Dell’ Olio will be present to honor Michael in prayer and a brief reading of farewell.

In lieu of flowers, Michael’s family has requested that donations be made to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center’s “Annual Fund” in his honor.