Kevin Butler

Kevin Butler was a prominent member of Ashford Rotary Club for over 30 years and we were shocked and saddened by his sudden death. 

He joined our club back in 1991; he was at that time a branch manager at Barclays Bank. He played an active role in the club's activities from the start, taking part in all our outside events such as the children's panto visits, Easter parcels and our visits to Sassenheim. Soon he was chairing committees and was elected to club council. He first served as President in 1995-6, when his chosen charity was the Shooting Star Hospice, encouraged by a work colleague who helped that charity. 

 One of his major contributions the the club was to serve as our Treasurer from 2006 right up until the time he passed away, producing regular monthly reports on our finances. During this time he also served twice more as President: in 2005-6 he led us through our 40th anniversary year, again raising money for Shooting Star, and in 2019-20, when local clubs joined forces to raise money for the newly-built Woking and Sam Beare Hospice. He played a major part in the club's successes - he was a pivotal organiser and helper at our classic car rallies and his quizzes were popular and successful fundraising events. 

Kevin was a great character and will be much missed - a true Rotarian, consistently following our principle of Service Before Self. He was unfailingly good-humoured and welcoming, always willing to spend time helping others. In particular, he gave unstinting help to Vernon and Daphne Leader during their difficult times. Even after the sad death of his wife Anne he provided hospitality for our visitors from Sassenheim. Committee meetings at his home always provided the perfect opportunity for convivial fellowship, with generous refreshments on hand. 

Our club is the poorer for Kevin's passing and he will always be remembered with gratitude and affection.