Charles Butera

Charles E. Butera, 86, of Honesdale, died on Friday, February 20, 2015 on his property. He was preceded in death by his wife, the former Florence Pirrone Oettinger on January 4, 1997. Born on August 7, 1928 in Brooklyn, NY, he was the son of the late Salvatore and Carmella Mildred Mascolo Butera. He received his bachelor’s degree from Polytechnic School of Engineering and his master’s degree from St. John’s University. He was a US Navy veteran of World War II and the Korean War. Charlie began working at Sapolin Paint Co. in Brooklyn and later was a plant engineer for Pfizer and retired from S.B. Penick and Co. Pharmaceuticals. An active member of the Honesdale Lions Club, he was a past president, the former Zone 14H chairman, chaired the Blood Drive and organized the 90th Anniversary of the Honesdale Lions Club. He was a board member of the Adult Literacy Program and a member of the Beach Lake Singles Club, helping others cope with the loss of a loved one. Charlie also helped others through the Wayne County Area of Aging file their taxes. He enjoyed being a member of the Silver Sneakers Club at the Wayne County YMCA. He also enjoyed spending time at Baer Sports Center in Honesdale where he made many friends and became part of the Baer family. Charlie was well known to help anyone whether it be someone who needed a ride for their cancer treatment or someone needing help with their taxes, Charlie was always there to help. He is survived by his daughter Carol Butera of Queens Village, NY; his son Charles Butera of Belle Harbor, NY; his brother Michael Butera and wife Anne of Willlow Grove, PA; his sister Grace Eleanor Sanfilippo of Staten Island, NY; his step-sons Joseph, Michael, Chris, Charles and Mark Oettinger; step-daughters Annette Roio-Ritonnale and Susan Haeussler; his good friend, Gerry Baer and the Baer family; 10 grandchildren; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Camille Hogan. As per his request, cremation was held. The family will receive friends on Monday, March 2nd at Hessling Funeral Home, Inc., 428 Main St. Honesdale from 4 to 6. A Blessing Service will be held at 6pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Honesdale Lions Club, c/o Vannie Williams, 1 Old Fair Ave. Honesdale, PA 18431.