Michael A. Butler, Sr.

Michael Alan Butler, Sr. passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family, on Monday, June 2, 2025.

Born to the late Herbert Alan Butler (2007) and Phyllis Chance Butler (2019), Michael was raised on a farm on Tuckahoe Road in Denton, Maryland. He graduated from North Caroline High School in 1969.

On June 20, 1970, he married Elaine Collins, and together they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage.

After the family farm was sold in 1973, Michael took on the ambitious task of building a new home for his family, despite having no prior construction experience. He began working for Nuttle Lumber Company in Denton, and after two years, he and coworker Ike Todd ventured out together and founded Choptank Builders. When Ike retired in 1981, Michael became the sole owner of Choptank Builders, Inc., and built the company into one of the most respected construction firms in Caroline and Talbot counties.

Michael’s work, along with that of his talented team—including Jake Scott, Mike Butler Jr., Mick Butler, and Eber Aragon—was recognized in several magazines and earned a Merit Award from the American Institute of Architects.

He took great pride in every project, treating each job as if it were for his own family. Many of his clients became lifelong friends, a testament to his character and craftsmanship.

Michael is survived by his devoted wife, Elaine Butler; his son, Mike Butler Jr. (Missy); his daughter, Michelle Butler; and five grandchildren: Randall Butler, Sydney Butler, Mick Butler (Caroline), Olivia Morrison, and Carissa Dennis. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren: Parker Hawkins and Michael “Alan” Butler IV; and his sister Linda Lansinger. 

He is preceded in death by his brother Perry Butler (2022). 

Michael’s legacy will live on in the homes he built, the family he cherished, and the lives he touched through his work and friendship.

Friends may visit with the family on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 11AM to 1PM at the Denton Church of the Nazarene 10660 Greensboro Rd. Denton, MD. The funeral service will follow at 1PM. Burial will be in Denton Cemetery 24865 Meeting House Rd. Denton, MD.

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