Longtime Sears Employee Roger Butz Dies at 89

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Roger Dean Butz, a longtime employee of Sears, Roebuck and Company who later worked at Smitty's in Cedar Falls, Iowa, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026 at the age of 89. Butz was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and deep devotion to his family, which included his wife of over 66 years, four children, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Butz's story represents the changing nature of retail work in America, as he spent decades at Sears before transitioning to a second career later in life. His commitment to providing for his family through hard work and his active involvement in the community reflect values that are increasingly rare in today's fast-paced economy.

The details

Butz worked at Sears for 37 years before retiring and then taking a second job at Smitty's in Cedar Falls, where he worked for over 15 more years. He was known for his reliability, attention to detail, and the pride he took in his work. Outside of his professional life, Butz was an avid golfer who enjoyed giving lessons to others, and he also loved boating and fishing on the Mississippi River.

• Butz passed away on March 2, 2026.
• Visitation will be held on March 21, 2026 from 9:30 - 11:15 a.m.
• Funeral services will commence at 11:30 a.m. on March 21, 2026.

What’s next

A luncheon will follow the funeral services at the United Methodist Church basement.