Butch Townsend

Myron “Butch” LeRoy Townsend, 84, of Newton, Iowa, passed away peacefully on August 17 after a short battle with multiple myeloma.

Butch was born in Newton on February 28, 1941, to Harry and Veva (Patterson) Townsend and spent his entire life in the community he loved. The youngest of eight children, he shared a close bond with his siblings Wayne, Donald, Coleen, Kenny, Ruthie, Max, and Carroll. Growing up, the Townsend kids spent much of their time on the farm together.

After graduating from Newton High School in 1959, Butch married Sharon Parsons, and together they had two children, Myron and Kirk. From that marriage came grandchildren Megan (Aaron) Stelter, Tara Townsend, and Haley Townsend, and great-grandchild Collins Stelter. Butch later married JoAnn Lennon, and with her family welcomed stepchildren Steven DeValle, Courtney Silver, Jarrod DeValle, and Kira DeValle, as well as grandchildren Nicholas DeValle, Sarah DeValle, Jarron Silver, Rowen Silver, and Bryce Silver. Butch treasured every moment he could spend with his large and loving extended family.

Throughout his life, Butch worked in several places, but his heart was always at the bowling alley. He co-owned T&M Center Lanes for many years, where he built countless lifelong friendships. Even after leaving the business, retirement wasn’t in his nature — he later worked at Hy-Vee in Newton, where he loved greeting customers and sharing conversations daily. His favorite hobbies included golf and bowling, which he continued to enjoy up until just months before his passing. A devoted Iowa Hawkeyes and Indiana Fever fan, he rarely missed a chance to cheer them on.

Butch is survived by his wife, JoAnn Townsend; children Myron (Kim) Townsend and Kirk (Laura) Townsend; grandchildren and great-grandchild; stepchildren and step-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends whose lives he touched. He was preceded in death by his parents and all seven siblings, now lovingly reunited.

He will be remembered for his caring heart, quick wit, and gentle nature. His family is especially grateful for the many friends and loved ones who supported him during his final journey. Butch was fondly referred to as a “local celebrity” at the hospital, thanks to the overwhelming outpouring of love he received. He will be dearly missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, September 22, from 2:00–6:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post 111, 1101 W. 4th St. S, Newton, IA 50208. Light food and beverages will be provided. Family and friends are invited to stop by, share memories, and celebrate Butch’s life. Sympathy cards and memorials may be directed to Joann Townsend.