Dee Butler Israelsen

Dee Butler Israelsen, 86, passed away at his home on June 3rd, 2019 of causes incident to Parkinson's.
Dee was born in Hyrum, Utah on Sept 1st, 1932 to Victor E. and Eva May Israelsen. Dad's claim to fame was that he was born at the bottom of Hyrum Dam. When he was 2 years old, plans were made to build the Hyrum Reservoir at the site of the family farm. Dad was a poor swimmer so the family decided to relocate to North Logan where they established the Buttercup Dairy. Working with his parents, brothers and sisters, Dad learned the value of hard work and the importance of family. The Dairy operated for many years, allowing his children to learn those same values.
Dad married his 'Honey' Regene Keller, on Sept. 10th, 1952. He received his B.S. in Agriculture from Utah State Agricultural College. Seven months after the birth of their son Paul, Dee was called to serve for 2 years in the Central States Mission. Regene and Paul lived with Dee's family during that time, helping with the family farm. Upon his return, Dee and Regene built a home near the dairy and were blessed with 4 daughters, Shawna, Kathy, Tani and Jennifer.
When the dairy closed, Dee worked for North Logan City as Public Works Director until his retirement. He served for many years in the Rural Water Association of Utah as Director, Secretary, Vice President and President.
Dad was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served in many callings and was ordained a Seventy and served in the High Council, two bishoprics and then as a beloved Bishop for 5 1/2 years. His favorite calling was that of Scoutmaster where for over 10 years, he influenced the lives of countless young men for good. He hiked hundreds of miles with his Scouts to "just over the next ridge". He received the Silver Beaver award, one of the highest honors that can be given to a Scout leader.
After retirement, Dee and Regene served in the Montana, Billings mission for 18 months where they filmed archived records for the Genealogical Society. Dad had a firm testimony of the gospel and his Savior, which he shared at every chance in both word and deed.
Being a simple man, he liked simple things - bread and milk, applesauce, hunting, nature, a good joke or funny story. He enjoyed working with his hands, which remained so strong to the very end. We have wonderful memories as a family - camping, hiking, snowmobiling, horse-back riding and car-trips where nary a road side monument or plaque was ignored. Dad delighted in telling stories and singing songs to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Dee was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Don, Eugene, Wayne, Lyle, Earl, Floyd and sisters Eva Fay and Wanda. He is survived by his loving wife Regene, who was his angel caregiver and his children Paul (Maggie), Shawna (Brad) Baker, Kathy (Dale) Ashcroft, Tani (Todd) Andrus, Jennifer (Larry) Larsen and Phyllis Antonio, whom he loved as a daughter. Also survived by his brother Glen (Ruth) Israelsen and sister Wanee Welch. He is dearly loved by 17 grandchildren, their spouses and 29 great-grandchildren.
A viewing will be held at Allen Mortuary located at 420 East 1800 North in North Logan on Friday, June 7th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 8th at 11:00 a.m. at the North Logan LDS chapel, 1550 East 1900 North, with a viewing there from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. prior to the services. Interment will be at the North Logan, Utah Cemetery. Condolences and memories can be shared at www.allenmortuaries.net
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Primary Children's Hospital or Operation Underground Railroad. The family expresses their gratitude to Integrity and CNS home health for their loving care and expertise over the last few months.