Theora “Terrie” Butz

Theora “Terrie” Butz, 92, of Zionsville, IN died peacefully the morning of May 30, 2022, with angels and family by her side.  She had been healthy and active, living independently in her home, until a recent fall while gardening.

Terrie was born in North Mankato, MN on September 5, 1929, to the late Erick and Rosa (Dahms) Schirrschmidt. She graduated with a degree in nursing from Deaconess Hospital, Grand Forks, ND. Terrie married her beloved husband of nearly 66 years, the newly-minted LCMS Lutheran pastor Rev. Lee A. Butz, on August 27, 1950.  He preceded her in death in 2016.

Terrie was a registered nurse for 42 years.  She was the office nurse of Dr. Ralph Rea in Greenfield, IN for 29 years, during which time she missed one day of work.  She was also active in church activities and taught Sunday School for many years at Faith Lutheran Church.  She and her husband, Lee, later became charter members of both Advent Lutheran Church in Zionsville, IN and Epiphany Lutheran Church in Westfield, IN.

Terrie hosted a Christmas cookie exchange for 26 years and loved preparing for it by decorating every room in her home for her favorite holiday.  She jumped from a perfectly good plane on her 83rd birthday, fulfilling her wish of completing a sky dive, a gift from Lee.   She maintained a spotless house and beautiful yard, filled with flowers, bird houses, and a bird bath. She loved to garden, watch birds, and listen to her wind chimes.  Every snowfall brought her joy, reminding her of her native Minnesota. Frequent phone calls and in-person visits with her daughters, son, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter made it possible for her to keep up with all family happenings. Terrie was the most loyal of Purdue fans, and loved watching Big Ten basketball, remembering players, coaches, and details of games to discuss with her “kids”.

Terrie’s greatest treasure was her faith in God.  She began and ended each day with a devotion, setting an example for her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends.  She was absolutely devoted to her family, who benefitted from her generosity, kindness, wisdom, humor, bundt cakes that were always perfect, and chicken dinners which were unrivaled.

Terrie is survived by her children Paulette Carson, Noblesville, IN; Pat and Sam Hunter, Zionsville, IN; Ric and Rhonda Butz, Bella Vista, AR; and Jan and Jim Kolva, Bedford, VA.  She is also survived by grandchildren Chad and Kindra Baker, Carmel, IN; Claire and John McRoberts, Indianapolis, IN; Max Hunter, Indianapolis, IN, and Alex Kolva, Bedford, VA.  Her beloved great-granddaughter Kiera Baker and dear great-grandson Jaden Kolva also survive.  Terrie was preceded in death by her husband Lee Butz, her brother Eldo Schirrschmidt, her sister and brother-in-law Marilyn and Vern Kolander, and son-in-law Bill Carson.  She leaves her loving grandson-in-law, John, as the family’s sole Purdue fan.

Her family members wish to express their gratitude to Dr. Doug Franke, “Dr. Doug”, for years of loving care of Terrie. The team at the Ascension St. Vincent COAG Clinic (Medication Management) worked tirelessly to keep Terrie healthy, and she appreciated each of the cheerful, caring staff.   We would also like to express our thanks for the outstanding care Terrie received at St. Vincent Ascension Hospital, 86^th Street during her recent hospitalization.  Each doctor, nurse, technician, housekeeper, security guard, and staff member treated her with care, respect, and skill.  Words cannot convey the enormity of our appreciation.  Thank you, Compassus Hospice, for providing support during Terrie’s final days.  Your kindnesses will be remembered.

A memorial service celebrating Terrie’s life and Eternal Life will be held Saturday, June 4th at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 15605 Ditch Road, Westfield, IN  46074 at 2:00 pm.  Rev. Jeremy Mills will officiate. Calling will be at the church from noon until the time of the service. Inurnment services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Epiphany Lutheran Church (at the above address) or to a charity Terrie loved, Hands of Mercy, c/o Pat Nuffer, 6527 Deepwater Point Road, Williamsburg, MI  49690.

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