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Walter Sarvey

Sarvey

Walter Lloyd Sarvey, 97, of Butler, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Walter was born Dec. 23, 1928, in Butler County, to Silas Marlin and Effie Bowser Sarvey, and was later blessed by the care of his stepmother, Bessie Aggas Sarvey.

Walter genuinely loved his work and spent many years alongside his brother, Marlin, at M.D. Sarvey Plumbing and Heating. Even in his later years, he could often be found at “the shop,” organizing, fixing or tackling a project. A master tinkerer with remarkable ingenuity, Walter had a gift for making things work and finding creative solutions to everyday problems.

He believed in staying active, beginning many days with a ride on his stationary bike and a walk at the mall. He also had a lifelong love of music. Though he often wished he could read music, he could play by ear and enjoyed the organ, accordion, harmonica and finger harp. Family members especially cherished his tradition of calling on birthdays to play “Happy Birthday” on his harmonica.

Walter found joy in life’s simple pleasures: rocking on his back porch, sharing a cup of coffee, enjoying ice cream — because there was always “room for ice cream” — and spending time with family. He especially enjoyed visiting his younger brother, Earl, or meeting him at McDonald’s for coffee and conversation.

Walter was devoted to his beloved wife, Mary R. Sarvey, whom he married Aug. 31, 1950. Together they shared 67 years of marriage, many trips to Niagara Falls and a lifetime of love. Following Mary’s passing in 2017, he missed her deeply. Their faith was central to their lives as longtime members of First Baptist Church of Butler.

Walter is survived by his son, Larry (Cathy) Sarvey; grandchildren, Marybeth (Jeff) Harris, Justin (Jodi) Sarvey and Rebecca “Becky” (Tyler) Allie; great-grandchildren, Brooke and Payson Sarvey and Elijah and Oliver Harris; his brother, Earl Sarvey; and many beloved nieces, nephews and extended family members.

In addition to Mary, he was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Marlin, Ralph, Vernon, Percy and Harold; sisters, Pearl, Viola, Joy, Freda, Rosella, Betty and Amy; and several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, stepbrothers and stepsisters.

Walter will be remembered for his strong work ethic, ingenuity, musical talents, love of family, and ability to find joy in simple moments. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds peace and comfort in knowing that Walter is resting in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and reunited with Mary. They smile at the thought of the two of them sitting side by side, catching up over a bowl of ice cream, together again at last.

SARVEY — A celebration of life for Walter Lloyd Sarvey, who died Friday, June 19, 2026, will be held at a later date.

Private burial will be in Crown Hill Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to YOUNG FUNERAL HOME, Butler.

For more information, go to www.youngfuneralhomes.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.

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