George (Butch) Reed
George (Butch) Michael Reed, born April 1, 1947, in Chicago to George D. Reed and Catherine (Lange) Reed, died peacefully on March 29, 2026, just days before his 79th birthday.
His family moved from Streator, Illinois to Montana when he was seven, and he lived here for the remainder of his life.
Early in life and in his youth, Butch was often seen riding his bicycle all over town, a testament to his adventurous spirit and active nature. As a young boy, he spent much of his time to helping his grandparents with chores on their chicken farm in the Helena Valley which not only taught him the value of hard work but also gave him a sense of responsibility at an early age.
In his teenage years, Butch could be quite mischievous. One memorable incident was when he left for Missoula without informing anyone, prompting his mother and sister to spend the night searching for him.
He joined the United States Army on October 14, 1966, and was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington where the rain was so relentless that he volunteered to go to Vietnam to escape it. He served in Vietnam for about a year and earned the Bronze Star Medal. Story has it that before leaving for the service, he threw a party where the keg exploded, leading him to clean up the mess with a toothbrush.
After leaving the Army in 1968, he spent his life working on gas pumps, operating heavy equipment, and driving trucks, but his real passion was working on Volkswagens.
Butch was one of the hardest working and kindest people. No matter what he was doing he would drop it and come help anyone. He would give anyone that needed it the shirt off his back.
Butch’s heart was filled with deep gratitude for the companionship of his many friends and wonderful neighbors. He treasured their unwavering kindness and support, which brightened his days and provided comfort during both moments of joy and times of challenge. Every gesture of help and generosity meant the world to him, reflecting the strength of the bonds he built within his community. Butch was profoundly thankful for the presence of these caring individuals, whose acts of kindness left an enduring mark on his life and whose friendship he appreciated beyond measure.
To count one or two true friends is to be among the luckiest, and Butch truly was. His friendship with Tom Isle and Dwayne Zander went far beyond casual connection, they became brothers in spirit, fellow travelers through life’s twists and turns. The years working alongside Dwayne grew into a deep and unwavering bond, one that welcomed Dwayne’s wife Vicky into the fold as well. Their steadfast companionship and loyalty enriched Butch’s days with laughter, support, and a sense of belonging that only the dearest friends can provide.
In 2016, after what was years of subtle (and not-so-subtle) persuasion, Butch finally got Bev, the love of his life, to say “I do.” For Bev, he was truly the love of her life, and she happily became his wife. The last decade became a victory lap for Butch, who proved that persistence pays off, especially in matters of the heart. Together, they celebrated nearly ten years as husband and wife, with Butch basking in the glory of having finally sealed the deal.
He is preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. He is survived by his wife Beverly, sister Marie Spurzem (Jack), children Michael Reed (Annie), Melissa Jackson (Tyson), Robert Reed (Katherine), Tammy Reich (Donald), Tanna Bogle (Rick “Buddy”), along with 12 grandchildren: Alara, Kenzie, Dylan and Gus (Michael’s kids), Kyle and Stephanie (Melissa’s kids), Matthew and Ryan (Robert’s kids), Derek (Tammy’s son), Matthew, Joey, and Ashley (Tanna’s kids), and 12 great-grandchildren all of whom he dearly loved.
Deep appreciation goes out to the ICU team at Fort Harrison VA Medical Center, everyone at Cooney Healthcare and Rehabilitation, as well as Monica and the Stillwater Hospice group for their unwavering support.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m. to When it Ends
Saturday April 18, 2026
V.F.W. Post 10010 (Lower Level)
117 West Main Street
East Helena, Montana 59635
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m. to When it Ends
Saturday April 18, 2026
V.F.W. Post 10010 (Lower Level)
117 West Main Street
East Helena, Montana 59635
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Sharon Meyer says
Butch you will be missed by everyone that knew you, so proud to say you were such a great neighbor for years before you and Bev finally made the decision to be together, it was great to see you two so happy together. RIP my friend until we meet again 🙏🙏
MADELINE DARLENE SCOTT says
So sad to read that another “neighborhood kid” has passed. I haven’t seen Butch in decades, but the childhood memories of all of us kids, growing up together, being kids, doing the things we did to have fun, and as we grew into our teenage years, riding in our first cars, sneaking past Chub Munger’s back yard, to get into the Sunset, to see a free movie, taking turns dating each other, just came flowing back into my mind. I hope your fond memories will help to heal your heart, Marie. You have my sympathy, as does the rest of the family. RIP Butch.
Darlene Miller Scott
Sharon Heigh says
RIP Butch
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you!
Sharon Baker Heigh and Family
Jean Ross Mitchell says
I remember the days of going out to Helena from Streator, Illinois to visit Grandma Edna & Al, and we cousins from Illinois, went right away to Butch & Marie. The times we went up into the mountains for a picnic. We cousins, will miss you Butch. I look atthe pictutres taken back then. You gave wonderful memories to cherish forever. Rest in Peace Butch.
Richard Broadwater says
I am sad to hear of Butch’s passing and my condolences go out to his family. Butch was one of a kind and really was one of those rare people that would give you the shirt off of his back. He was wise beyond his years and true blue in every way. He worked for my father for a ton of years and dad couldn’t have done it without him. Rest in Peace my friend.
Rick B
Glen Briese says
Mike and family sorry for the loss a true man of the backhoe!
Ralph Beer says
Butch and I went to Helena High together, Class of ’66. I always enjoyed talking with him. He had a relaxed, lanky way about him that I liked a lot. I’m happy to learn he had a good life, with family and love in those last years.
Sally Nyland says
My condolences to the family of George “Butch” Reed. I remember first knowing him from when I attended Lincoln grade school. Another classmate earning his wings. RIP.
Rebekka Dodge says
Marie and Jack,
I am so sorry for the loss of your brother. This sums up his life beautifully, even though I didn’t really know him except through his sister Marie. I remember getting eggs delivered to our house as a young girl. I grew up in the nighborhood just several blocks from the Sunset theatre so looking back through his eyes was a treat. Please know I have you in my thoughts.
Tahitia says
Butch was my grandfather, his late wife Donna was my maternal grandmother. They were married until she died. The only man in my life to actually honor “til death do us part”. This saint of a man was always kind to me and kind to my brothers, through all the drama my grandmother ensued, he was the sweetest soul to have ever lived. He will be dearly missed. Such words dont even cover the honor.
Kathryn Akins says
Butch was my grandfather my entire childhood. His late wife Donna was my sweet Grammy. He was an amazing man and loving grandfather. I will forever cherish the memories and all the love he gave to myself and all my cousins.