Obituary of Franklin John Butson

It is with great sadness and broken hearts that the family of Dr. Frank Butson announces his passing on Saturday, March 12th, 2016 in his 95th year. Beloved and cherished husband to Nonnie for 37 years. Loving father of Julie and Anthony Gubbels, Wayne Butson and Bonnie Butson. Proud and loving Grampy and adored golf buddy to Jordan (Matt), Taylor and Mackenzie (Ben). Loving grandfather to Alexandra (Geoff) Hall and great-grandfather to Olivia and Sophie Hall. Remembered by his sister Louise Evans. Special brother-in-law to Audrey Lamont and Judy Vertz. Also missed by many nieces and nephews. Long-time friend of Howard Cameron and Howard Capes. Predeceased by his parents Loril and Pearl Butson, and his siblings Harris and Madeline. A special thank you to Reagan Letourneau-Burgess for her companionship and care of Frank over the past few years. Frank and Nonnie were married in 1978. In their early years they had many opportunities to travel through Europe and many sunny destinations, with their favourite winter holidays spent in Barbados. Later this transitioned into annual family holidays to include the grandchildren. Frank was a dedicated and respected family physician in London for 40 years. His career in medicine began when he enrolled at the College of Pharmacy at the University of Toronto. After graduation, he apprenticed at Hamilton General. Frank joined the Navy and was assigned to a Naval hospital in Nova Scotia. His third year was spent on a Naval Frigate doing North Atlantic escort duty. When Frank was discharged from the Navy, he felt fortunate to be accepted into medicine at the University of Western Ontario. He graduated with the class of 1950. Following graduation, he practised in Exeter and then ultimately settled his practice in London. Frank was an integral part of the formation of The Department of Family Medicine at the University of Western Ontario. He was also a mentor to students aspiring to become family physicians. Frank was a founding member of the College of Family Physicians of Canada, a life member of The Ontario College of Family Physicians and the London and District Academy of Medicine. Aside from his passion for medicine, Frank’s favourite sport and pastime was the game of golf. Frank had been a proud member of Sunningdale Golf & Country Club for nearly 60 years. He became president there in 1969 and sat on The Board of Directors for several years. Sunningdale was a place where Frank found much joy and pleasure over the years and spent countless hours on the Thompson and Robinson courses. He has been a very familiar and welcoming face around the club for many years. He was also a member of the Canadian Seniors’ Golf Association. His love of the game of golf afforded him the opportunity to play various courses in Canada and abroad as well as pass on his game to his granddaughters to continue his legacy. In his later years, although Frank was frustrated with his declining eyesight and mobility, he never lost his sense of humour and sharp wit. Frank’s life was truly a life well-lived and he will be missed by everyone who knew him. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, where the funeral service will be conducted on Friday, March 18th, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. (with visitation one hour prior). Cremation to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Frank J. Butson Bursary in Family Medicine, Western University, Attn.: Karmen Dowling, Western University, Westminster Hall, Suite 110, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7. Cheques may be made payable to Western University, or by calling (519) 661-4200, or online at www.westernconnect.ca/tribute. Alternately, donations to a charity of your choice would also be appreciated.