Pillar: a vertical structure used as a support to hold something up in a reliable and essential fashion.

Usually, the word pillar is used in reference to a building or other structure. But it truly takes on an accurately correct description when speaking of community leaders.

In the span of just a few hours this weekend, Butler County lost two pillars of our community. Ray Lassinger and Dale Pinkerton passed over to the other side of glory and away from the struggles of this earth and its diseases.

The commonality of the two were great, and yet very different at times. Each were color blind yet loved to wear the brightest colors of sports coats and suits.

Each were devoted family men, strong businessmen and generous to a fault. Quiet mentoring of young men was also a shared attribute.

Dale was comfortable in the brightest of spotlights and took the forefront in causes, even if they were not popular, as long as he believed it was for the betterment of Butler County.

Ray was much quieter, while at the same time giving generously from the blessings he received in his life. He didn’t seek or desire any recognition, but only to do right by his God, his family, his company and his community.

Each suffered long bouts with illness the past few years and experienced the loss of loved ones. Dale lost his mother and Ray his wife.

But you never heard a complaint or a “why me” from these gentlemen. They took the good with the bad and did the best they could at all times.

They were each true pillars of this community. They held us up in the most positive ways with professionalism, integrity and a side of good humor.

Their families will mourn the loss of the love and comfort which they provided. The community will struggle to find new pillars to build upon to keep Butler County as the great community they helped build. Farewell our friends, and enjoy your colorful new lives.