Stephen Hudson Butler, aged 60 of Kenai, Alaska, left us peacefully on October 14, 2025, surrounded by family and friends.
Stephen lived his life with a quiet, abiding love of God, reflected in his reverence for nature, his compassion for others, and the joy he found in life’s simple blessings.
Stephen was born on August 31, 1965, in Oklahoma City where he grew up with his parents and stepparents and four brothers. He graduated from Edmond Memorial High School in 1984 and attended University of Central Oklahoma.
Stephen’s deep appreciation for the outdoors was first cultivated during his childhood, when hunting and fishing in Eufaula, Oklahoma with his stepfather Jerry Canterbury. Stephen embraced the traditions of fishing and hunting with reverence and skill. Stephen found joy and fulfillment in preparing meals for his family and friends. An avid gardener, he cultivated much of what he cooked, growing fresh ingredients adding to his dedication to nourishing those he cared about. Stephen possessed a remarkable musical talent. He had an innate ability to play nearly any instrument he picked up, many of which he handcrafted himself.
While living in Goldsby, Oklahoma, Stephen forged one of his deepest, most enduring friendships with Kenneth Reece. Later in Norman, Oklahoma, Stephen met his soulmate, Shana Kolipano and they shared 28 years together moving to North Carolina, Tennessee and eventually to Kenai, Alaska, where they made their home and built a life in a close-knit community and made lasting friendships. It was there that they welcomed their son, Mason Allen Butler, in 2008.
Stephen was a devoted husband and father whose love for his family was unwavering. His bond with Shana was rooted in loyalty, laughter, and love. He took immense pride in watching their son Mason grow into a strong and accomplished young man.
Known for his creativity, musical talent, and generous spirit, Stephen brought warmth, dedication, and quiet strength to every role he embraced as a partner, a parent, a brother, and a friend.
Stephen worked various oilfield roles on the Kenai Peninsula before joining Hilcorp Energy in 2015. Stephen’s creativity and craftsmanship were evident throughout his life, most notably in his contributions to the construction of some of Ninilchik’s original production facilities for Hilcorp, where his skill and dedication will leave a lasting mark.
Stephen will always be remembered for his kind heart and his extraordinary artistry. He could transform a piece of wood into something original and amazing, whether he carved a beautiful object, built an intricate structure, or crafted a musical instrument. Every piece was uniquely his, reflecting the ingenuity and creativity that defined him as a person.
Stephen was preceded in death by his father, Virgil Hudson Butler, his mother Linda Allen Canterbury, his stepmother Jan Butler, and stepbrother, Matt Glazener.
He is survived by his stepfather Jerry Canterbury, his wife Shana Butler, son Mason Butler and his brothers Taylor Allen Butler, Marcus Ainsworth Butler and Mitra Mechanic, and stepbrother Phil Glazener. His nieces and nephews, Brad and Tiffany Butler, Tabitha Butler, Creston Butler, Clayton and Erin Butler, Miles Butler, and Mitchell Butler.
Obituary provided by Alaska Cremation.