Hello Mushroom Enthusiasts & Members of the Mushroom Community,
It is with a heavy heart that I share with you the news of Gene Butler’s passing. Not only was Gene the SW WA Mycological Society’s esteemed honorary adviser, but he was the founder of the local Club 5 years ago. He also helped found the Snohomish County Mycological Society 35+ years ago. Through his countless hours of volunteerism with developing educational programs, keying out the specific genera in a published book, and the willingness to share his vast technical knowledge on mycology, the mushroom community is forever grateful.
Just the other day when he was bit frustrated with his recalling of a specific uncommon specimen, I had jokingly told him, he has forgotten more about the taxonomy of mushrooms than most of us will ever learn in a lifetime & not to fret. I think we’re all in agreement with that statement. His passing has left a giant chasm in the mushroom community. Gene became an integral part of the mushroom community beginning in the 1970s with assisting the original Pacific Northwest Key Council stretching over several states & spanning over 40 plus years. Gene was a well known & respected member of the local community through his involvement of various organizations & Lewis County has lost a great citizen.
We will share with you as more details become available regarding Gene’s celebration of life ceremony. Please feel free to share this within the mushroom community as Gene Butler was a very well known & highly respected mycologist. Our hearts are saddened by the loss of our dear friend.
Sincerely,
Heather Loose