A Point of Light at a Time of Need
Benjamin J. Butera
Hampden – Benjamin Joseph Butera, 85, passed away peacefully June 2, 2012 at a Bangor healthcare facility. Benjamin was born in Bangor February 26, 1927 to the late Lorenzo and Carmela (Capostagno) Butera.
Ben grew up and was educated in Bangor before enlisting in the U.S. Navy and serving his country during World War II. Upon returning from the war, Ben owned and operated the Butera Sunoco Service Station, the Million Mile Muffler Shop and a fuel oil business in Brewer. One of Ben's greatest passions was flying. He was an avid pilot and a member of the Quiet Birdmen Flying Club. He was a faithful communicant of St. Paul the Apostle Parish, St. Matthew's Catholic Church, a member of the Pine Cone Council #114 Knights of Columbus of Bangor and a life member of the Whitcomb-Baker V.F.W. Post #4633 of Hampden. Ben will be remembered as a loving husband, brother, uncle, and friend.
Ben is survived by his wife of 46 years, Norma L. (Bridges) Butera of Hampden; a brother, Larry Butera and wife Alvina of Bangor; two sisters, Vivian McKenna of Bangor and Carmela Spencer and husband Robert of Canada; three sisters-in-law, Anna of Brewer, Rose of Hermon, and Nonie of Bangor; two brothers-in-law, Alfred and George Bridges of Unity, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Ben was predeceased by his parents, and three brothers, Raymond, Joseph, and Charles.
Family and friends may visit 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M., Wednesday, June 6, 2012 at Hampden-Gilpatrick Funeral Home, 45 Western Avenue, Hampden. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 A.M., Thursday, June 7, 2012 at St. Paul the Apostle Parish, St. Matthew's Catholic Church, 70 Western Avenue, Hampden. Interment with military honors will be immediately after the Funeral Mass at Mt. Pleasant Catholic Cemetery, Bangor. Memorial contributions in Ben's honor may be made to the National M.S. Society, 74 Gray Road, Falmouth, Maine 04105. Messages of condolence and memories may be shared through www.hampdengilpatrick.com.