Billy Gene Butikofer, 77, of Elkader passed away Sunday, September 30, 2018, at Central Community Hospital in Elkader. He was born December 31, 1940, in Elkader, to Walter and Lydia (Dennler) Butikofer. Bill was confirmed at St. Paul’s Methodist Church in Elgin. He graduated from Elkader High School with the Class of 1958. He served in the United States Army in Germany.
He was united in marriage to Marcia C. Metzger on October 10, 1964. Three children were born to this union.
Bill was a devoted farmer, milking dairy cows until the fall of 2001. During his early years, he enjoyed being a member of 4-H and FFA. For a time, he worked at Walch Ford; then Bill and brother Norbert operated the Sinclair gas station, both in Elkader. Bill was a loyal member of Bethany Church, American Legion, and the Farm Bureau.
Survivors include his children, Terry Butikofer of Elkader, Wayne Butikofer of Jacksonville, FL and Jill (Vince) Priebe of Prairie du Chien, WI; one step-grandchild, Lisa Ramirez of Coralville; brothers, Norbert (Janet) Butikofer of Elkader, Melbert (Jean) Butikofer of St. Olaf; brother-in-law Harlan Backhaus of Garnavillo; nieces, nephews and numerous friends.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Marcia on May 17, 2013 and one sister, Zita Backhaus.
Visitation: 5 to 7:00 PM on Sunday, October 7, 2018, at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Elkader and after 10:00 AM on Monday at the church
Memorial Services with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, October 8, 2018, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Elkader with Rev. Susan Friedrich officiating.
Inurnment will be held at a later date.
Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service is helping the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be left with www.graufuneralhomes.com