Ronald D. “Butch” Duell
Posted By Kyle Nikola On September 9, 2021 @ 2:56 pm In Obituaries | 18 Comments
Ronald D. “Butch” Duell, 82, of Winooski, VT passed peacefully in his sleep on July 29, 2021, while surrounded by his family. Butch was born in Colchester, VT February 20th, 1939 to the late Napoleon C. and Florence (Brunelle) Duell.
After high school Butch went on to spend time with both the Air National Guard and Lear Aircraft Corporation where he excelled as an aircraft mechanic. In 1969 after several years with the Winooski Police Force he joined the Chittenden County Sherriffs office as Deputy. Butch became the first full time State paid Deputy when Corrections took over the County systems. in 1977 Butch was awarded Policeman of The Year for Outstanding Service. Butch went on to be the Sherriff of Chittenden County until 1987. Butch’s passion for Law Enforcement was immense as he deeply cared for those in and around his community. The Winooski Fire Department was also a big part of Butch’s life, he joined in 1960 and left in 1983 as 2nd Assistant to the Chief. After Butch’s long career in Law Enforcement as a Policeman, Deputy and SHERRIFF, Butch went on to be a Foreman at Adam’s Construction, Marquis Brothers and ultimately retired from The Pines Senior Living Community as their head of maintenance. He was also a proud member of the American Legion Post 91 for 15 years
Going anywhere with Butch was never a “quick trip” as he knew everyone no matter where we went with him. Butch was the ultimate prankster and jokester, there was never a dull moment being around him. Butch loved his family, friends, Morning Coffee with “the Guys”, Sunday drives, Sunday dinners, woodworking, fixing anything, Ogunquit, ME, “The Old Gang” dinners and traveling to see his grandchildren. AL’s… how could we forget you; Butch would pass up anything for a trip to AL’s French Frys.
He is survived by his 4 children, Melinda (Travis) Sortor of Savannah, GA, Ryan (Elaine) Duell, of Columbus, OH, Heidi (Dave) Vaillancourt of Colchester, VT and Eliza Redmond of Tampa, FL. Niece and Nephew Kim and David Duell. Butch’s main pride and joy were his 6 grandkids; Mason Blondin, Harper and Riley Sortor, Isabella, Reid, and Kennedy Duell. All of who loved to share Papa’s Pepsi. He is pre-deceased by his Twin brother Donald “Ducky” Duell, sisters Marilyn (Duell) Myers and Nancy Duell, nephews Donald “Chip” Duell Jr and John Myers.
We will miss you always; Daddy, Dad, Papa, Butch and of course your favorite 3 letters UDH. You were a standup guy that offered love, care and comedy to all who crossed your path.
A Celebration of Butch’s life will be held November 13 at the American Legion Post #91 at 3pm. Please join us to share your memories. Donations in his honor can be made directly to Vermont Cares or The American Legion.
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Condolences for the family of “Ronald D. “Butch” Duell”
To Butch’s family our deepest condolences . He was a wonderful customer
we enjoyed his company at Al’s
Bill Bissonette
Butch, He was always a class act, gentlemen all the way, good people RIP.
Terri and I were very sorry to hear of Butch’s passing. He was a great guy, and an excellent employee when he worked with us at Coburn & Feeley at the Pines.
Our condolences to Butch’s family and friends. He was one of a kind, and we are so glad our paths crossed with him in life.
RIP, Butch
I have many fond memories of Butch, the most recent was crossing paths with him at Al’s French Fry’s, several years ago. Prior to that, eight years ago, he joined Elena and I on her back porch. What fun they had reminiscing! Butch was always there to help Elena, she loved him like a brother.
I find these memories bring me closer to Butch; may memories of your much loved father bring you comfort.
With deepest sympathy,
Susan Griffin
Butch was a good friend. We enjoyed our morning coffees with the gang, he made us all laugh. It was a wonderful way to start the day. He is greatly missed.
So sorry on the passing of your father.He was my boss at the sheriffs office .loved working for him may he rest in peace
Our Deepest Sympathy Ryan, Mindy,Heidi & Liza, Butch was like a brother to us—a great friend, a neighbor for many years both younger years and adult years. Missing him terribly, May HE rest in peace!! LOVE to ALL
You’re right, Pat; he was a great friend, brother, and neighbor to all the “boys” in Winooski. He is resting in peace with the Lord our God.
There are so many fond memories of working with Butch over the years at the Pines. Most notably is how is was always there for me as a newly single mom. Dropping off a snow blower when a storm was pending, and many other “little” things along the way just to make sure that I was ok. Lots of jokes, and lots of laughs. And just a few trips to Als for lunch 🙂
Sending my best to all of his friends and family.
Stacey Morrissey
I knew Butch as a child growing up in Winooski. My Dad and him seemed to be good friends. I will always remember that smile and the excitement that I was friends with a COP! Mahalo Butch for that and all that you were to us!
I’m sorry for your loss.
Mindy and Ryan, Sharon and I offer our condolences. Your dad was a great person as I transported with him bringing inmates going to Windsor or Waterbury. the inmates would ask for cigarettes Butch on many occasions would stop at a store and buy a pack
Or two Of cigarettes [the big bad sheriff ] He was paying for these cigs from his funds.
I knew Butch when I worked at the Pines years ago. He was such a nice guy and so funny! My condolences to his family.
Butch was certainly a great guy. I worked with him when he was with Walt Adam’s. Enjoyed seeing him at morning coffee at maple fields.
Sorry for your loss.
To Butches family my sincere condolences. He was a great man and very good friend of my dad Dick Lesage. They spent a good portion of their lives together in work and play, dinners, coffee and jokes. Now they are back together in a different kind of crime: heanenly deeds. As I said that the most beautiful Monarch butterfly flew right by me. A take that as a sign from them both. Brought tears to my eyes. My heart goes out to family and friends. Mary Ann ( Lesage) Burlingame
I’m so sorry to hear this sad news. I knew Butch from bowling. Ryan and my son Ben played on the same team.
Last time I saw him, I was at the Pines. It was SO GOOD TO SEE HIM!! Such a joker and he never changed. I loved that about him. He was a sweet human being.
Sending my thoughts & prayers to the whole family. Butch & my dad, Zane Snelling, worked together for many years. They are working again together & telling jokes. He was such a wonderful man!!!! He will be sorely missed by all.
Uncle Butch I think of you, Mom, Dad & Chip everyday
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Ryan, so very sorry for your loss. Your Dad was one of a kind! Great guy who will surely be missed by all. May your memories heal your broken heart.
Love,
Carol & Kevin Lavalley