John "Butch" Ray Lewis

On March 17, 2024, we bid farewell to John “Butch” Lewis, a beacon of strength, kindness, and service. His departure leaves behind a legacy marked by unwavering generosity, steadfast commitment to justice, and boundless courage.

Born on July 10, 1941, in Abbeyville, Louisiana, to Reba Vandaberg and John Lewis, Butch's family relocated  to Wyoming shortly after his birth, where he attended Casper schools and later Natrona County High School. Butch left school, one month after his 17th birthday to join the United States Marine Corps, embarking on a global voyage that included service in Japan and Korea. It was during his tenure in the Marines that he imbibed the values of discipline, integrity, and loyalty, shaping his future endeavors.

Following an honorable discharge, Butch returned to Casper and enrolled in the police academy, commencing a distinguished career in law enforcement. Renowned for his tenure as one of the first motorcycle officers, Butch epitomized honor and protection, earning universal respect. His dedication to justice and compassion for the vulnerable marked him not only as an exemplary officer but also as a cherished colleague.

It was during his patrol duties at the Central Wyoming Fair and Rodeo that Butch encountered the love of his life, Judie Murphy. Their courtship culminated in marriage in late 1964, where they began their married life together in the basement apartment of the Casper Bandshell in Washington Park. Together they built a family, welcoming their son Johnny in 1967 and daughter Ashlie in 1969. Alongside family responsibilities, Butch pursued further education at Casper College, transitioning careers to join the Natrona County Sheriff’s Office.

In 1977, Butch took a leap of faith, left law enforcment and purchased the Sage Club in Evansville, Wyoming. In 1988 he rebranded the Sage into Happy Days Liquor, then Butch’s Happy Days in 2005. Thriving as an entrepreneur, he fostered camaraderie and warmth at his establishment, bringing his customers together, to form their own large and extended family. He extended his generosity beyond the doors of his bar, and opened his home to a wide and varying array of characters and kids alike. Butch and Judie never closed their doors to those in need, and were renowned for the kindness, grace and respect with which they treated all they encountered. 

Butch is survived by his wife of 60 years Judie, his son, Johnny Lewis, daughter Ashlie (John) Schmidt, grandchildren Tim (Ashley) Lewis, Gage Williams, Sharayah Lewis, Challen Schmidt, and Hannah (Matt) Loucks, along with great grandchildren Scarlett and Quincy Loucks and a vast network of chosen family, friends, and individuals whose lives were touched by his selflessness and grace. 

In honoring Butch's memory, let us emulate his spirit of generosity, courage, and compassion. May he rest in peace, secure in the knowledge that his legacy will forever endure in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him. Services will be held at the Oregon Trail Veterans Cemetery on Monday, March 25th, at 1:00 pm, followed by a reception at The Eagle’s Club, 306 N. Durbin, at 2:00 pm.