Jean Butler Obituary

Jean Minarik Butler passed away unexpectedly in Rancho Mirage, CA on January 1, 2025. She was born on April 20, 1960, in Minneapolis, Minnesota; the cherished daughter of Marjorie (Dorsett) and George Minarik and beloved sister of Julie.

Jean was a charming beauty with sparkling blue eyes and an adventurous spirit. Before becoming a devoted mother to her two children, Danielle and Taylor, she worked for Alaska Airlines; a role that fueled her passion for travel. She explored the world extensively before settling down to raise her family in the Seattle, Washington area.

As her children grew older, Jean transitioned from the airline industry into real estate. Her bubbly energy, sociability, and sharp intellect made her a well-respected and successful realtor. She used her artistic eye and talent for staging to transform houses into homes and clients into lifelong friends for many years. Always one to stay busy and fulfilled by her environment, she enjoyed working and attending concerts at the Chateau Ste. Michelle winery for several years, before eventually departing Washington for sunnier skies and palm trees.

She and her husband, Rod, eventually retired to the Coachella Valley in California where she enjoyed going to polo matches, playing tennis, and making new friends. She discovered a newfound love of cruising, taking several lovely trips with her family and friends to Europe and the Caribbean.

Her magnetic personality and unique perspective on the world around her brought joy to so many people worldwide, friends and strangers alike. Amongst countless other amazing qualities she possessed, she was also a fierce protector of her loved ones, an amazing cook, lover of animals, and a strong fighter, passionate about the causes close to her heart. She loved her children endlessly, always supporting their dreams and pushing them to achieve success.

Jean was predeceased by her parents and sister. She is survived by her husband, James "Rod" Butler, and children, Danielle Hanover, Taylor (Ellie) Cates, nephew, Brian (Brittany) Kotyk, niece, Megan (Peter) Aldrich and her great-nephews, Roen, Maddox, and Brixton.

A memorial service will be held in her honor on April 6, 2025 in her home in Rancho Mirage.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jean's name may be made at Lifewire (formerly Eastside Domestic Violence) https://www.lifewire.org/donate/