Daniel Patrick Butler

Daniel "Danny" Patrick Butler, a man with a heart of gold and an immense love for everyone, passed away peacefully in the arms of his loving Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, August 30, 2026, in Mankato, MN. He was 60 years old.

Born on August 11, 1966, in Long Beach, California, Danny was a truly special individual, known for his childlike innocence and pure spirit. His kindness and unshakable faith were a light to all who knew him. Even in the face of great hardship and suffering throughout his life, Danny never complained, always carrying himself with grace and humility.

Danny’s first notable hardship came on November 30, 1982, just after his 14th birthday, when he found himself an orphan. Shortly after that, he lived with his brother in a van by the river for quite some time, trying to figure out life. It's not easy living in a van. You learn how to eat what other people throw in the trash. You don't get to go to school. You don't get to learn how to read or write.

Through it all, he always kept a small note in his pocket that he received from one of his aunts during a family visit while his mother was still alive. That small note simply said, “Aunt Rosie and Uncle Keith” with a phone number.

Danny was about 24 years old when he finally got the nerve to dial the phone number. He had been living in that van and other similar places for ten years. Mobile phones were not then what they are today, so he called “collect” hoping whoever answered the phone would accept the charges and keeping his fingers crossed that the number hadn't changed.

Not only was the call accepted, but a bus ticket was immediately sent out. But Danny couldn't read yet, and he missed his scheduled stop, and got off the bus a hundred miles past his destination.

He was welcomed with unconditional love by his extended family in Minnesota, who embraced him as one of their own, and he quickly found a home filled with love, laughter, and fellowship.

Danny’s kind and compassionate nature and unwavering love of Jesus touched the hearts of everyone around him. He found joy in the simple things, cherishing his collection of Matchbox cars and small trinkets. These treasures perfectly reflected his ability to find wonder and happiness in life's little moments, a testament to the profound beauty of his spirit.

Danny is survived by his brother, Richard Butler, Jr.; and his sister, Desiree Butler, his Minnesota family including aunt, Charlene Young of Austin, MN, aunt, Rosemary Price of Rose Creek, MN and uncle, David Carey of Minneapolis, MN and very many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret Carey Butler and Richard Butler, Sr.; his grandparents, Horace and Cecilia (Thome) Carey; and many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial honoring Danny Patrick’s life will take place on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Rose Creek officiated by Father James Berning. There will be no visitation, and a rosary will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the church. Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery, Rose Creek, MN.

Danny Patrick will forever be remembered for his unconditional love, unwavering faith, and the joy he spread through his simple yet beautiful life. His family and friends will deeply miss him as they cherish the precious memories he leaves behind. “Lieutenant Dan”, as he was lovingly referred to by those closest to him, will forever be missed and remembered.

Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.