MECHANICVILLE - Preston Butler, 78, of Willow Glen Rd, died at home, Wed, March 21st, after battling several illnesses over the years.
Born in the house he lived and died in, son of the late Leonard and Agnes Butler, he was a 1957 graduate of Mechanicville High School.
A 20 years conductor/brakeman for the Delaware & Hudson Railroad, he retired in 1981 on disability, from injuries received during a train accident.
He was known as a taxpayer advocate for his neighbors and residents of the Town of Stillwater, speaking his mind at Town Board meetings, writing letters to the editors, being interviewed on radio, over Town matters.
Years ago, Preston was a noted winning dragster racer. He also was a self taught guitar player, who played with the former Lee Moore Band, and had been inducted in the NY State Country Music Hall of Fame.
Preston battled with Parkinson’s disease for many years, and set up physical therapy equipment in his home, to stave off consequences of his illness.
He was predeceased by his wife of 52 years Helen Craft Butler in 2015, along with sisters Betty Carr, Marie Bachtell and brothers James and David Butler.
Survivors include his sons Keith (Roxane) and Kevin (Mary) and daughter Karen (Chris) Garmley all of Mechanicville. Grandchildren: Christopher Garmley, Deidre (Nicholas) June, Cole Garmley, Nathan, Colin and Alicia Butler and great grandchildren Nathanial and Emillia June. Also sisters Irma Cornell, Thelma Urbaetis and Lynne (Pat) DeMarco, along with nieces, nephews and their families.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday at Noon at DeVito-Salvadore Funeral Home, 39 So. Main St., Mechanicville.
Calling hours at Funeral Home on Saturday from 10 AM till Noon.
In lieu of flowers, Preston would have appreciated remembrances be made to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter, 6010 County Farm Rd, Ballston Spa, 12020.

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