Gerald V. “Butch” Edwards, 78, of Maquoketa, Iowa, and formerly of Clinton, passed away on Friday morning, February 16, 2024, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa.

Gerald Vermal Edwards was born on October 22, 1945 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Vermal Chuck and Birdie (Lange) Edwards.  He grew up on a farm in the Leisure Lake area and attended the Otter Creek School house.  He married Marilyn Crist on October 9, 1965 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Two children were born to this union, Jill, and Terry.

Butch’s professional life was dedicated to the Chicago Northwestern/Union Pacific Railroad, where he served as a machinist for over 40 years. His commitment to his work was unwavering, and he took great pride in being part of the railroad community. Butch’s colleagues knew him as a man of integrity, dedication, and skill.

Outside of work, Butch’s passions were as diverse as they were engaging. He was an avid outdoorsman who found solace and joy in fishing and hunting. The thrill of riding motorcycles, the rush of snowmobiling, and the excitement of driving stock cars were pursuits that brought Butch immense happiness. His love for animals was evident in the care he gave to his four-legged pets, who were a constant source of companionship and comfort.

Butch’s life was a testament to the things he valued most: family, hard work, and the simple pleasures of life. He is survived by his devoted wife, Marilyn Edwards of Maquoketa; his loving children, Jill (Mike) Wagener of Maquoketa, and Terry (Julie) Edwards of Goose Lake; his 7 cherished grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy; and his brother, David “Pickel” (Elaine) Edwards of Maquoketa. Butch was preceded in death by his parents, Vermal Chuck and Birdie (Lange) Edwards, and his brother, Herb Edwards.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, February 22, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Streets Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.