COLONEL ARTHUR MAURICE BUTLER, CSG
Arthur Maurice Butler, Colonel, CSG, resident of Riverside, CA, for 51 years passed away at home on March 13, 2022. He was 74 years old.
Marty (as he was known by family and friends) was born at Itami AFB, Japan in 1947, the son of Colonel John E. Butler Jr USAF (Ret) and Connie M. (Hartzell) Butler. Marty began serving in 1970 in the Air Force Reserve and continued for over a decade. After being honorably discharged from the Air Force, he continued his service to our nation by volunteering for the California State Guard. He was commissioned as a Captain and served for 20 years attaining the rank of Colonel.
Marty was the beloved husband to his wife, the former Celine M. Bell; was a revered uncle to six nieces and nephews and great uncle to five grandnieces and grandnephews. Marty was a lifelong collector of antiques and would have been considered an expert in many fields. He was a pilot (power and gliders), sailor and horseman. Whether fly fishing or wing shooting, he loved the camaraderie of friends and the outdoors. And of course, his wonderful spaniels were part of his adventures.
Marty earned an undergraduate degree of Political Science at the California State University, San Bernardino and completed advanced studies at the University of Southern California. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Tau Kappa Epsilon and Alpha Phi Omega.
Marty began his career at California State University San Bernardino as a police officer and rose to the rank of Chief of Police (POST-certified). Offered a promotion to continue his career at the University, Marty accepted the position of Executive Director of the Foundation, retiring after 32 years. After leaving active service at the University, he served as the University Hearing Officer, was a board member for the Museum, Community Leaders Board and the Committee for Arts and Letters. He was Executive Director Emeritus of the Foundation.
Marty supported his community, the military and veteran’s organizations throughout his life. He was a member of Serra, the Exchange Club, Air Force Association and Daedalions. He served on the City of Riverside Personnel Board, Human Resources Board and the Airport Commission. He also served on the County of Riverside Airport Land Use Commission. He was Board Member and a Trustee for the Thomas Waltham Foundation at Flabob Airport. In addition, Marty was a member of the regional Selective Service Board.
Marty is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Celine. He is also survived by his brother, Colonel Raymond M. Butler USAF (Ret) of Redlands, California.
A Celebration of Life Mass will be on June 1st at 11:30 am at St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church, 3680 Arlington Avenue, Riverside, California.
Those who wish to honor Marty’s life are encouraged to consider a donation to the Daedalian Scholarship Fund in lieu of flowers. Please send to the Order of Daedalians 30th Flight, 17050 Arnold Drive, Box H-101, Riverside, CA, 92518 or contact at email address: 30flightadjutant@sbcglobal.net.