Eugene E. Furru

Born to eternal life on Saturday, July 4, 2026, age 88 years. Known to family and friends as “Butch”.

Happily married to the love of his life, Barbara, for 67 years. Dear father of Fred (Brenda) Furru and Joan (John) West. Proud grandpa to Jamie (Bryce), Allie (Rob), Brittany (Richard) and Jessie (Nick). Loving great grandpa to Eli “Scooter” and Myla and was excited for the arrival of his third great grandchild in September. Further survived by his siblings, Ned (Anne) Furru, JoEllyn (Wayne) Kulasiewicz, Patrick (Barbra) Furru, Rosemary (Randy) Hayden and sister-in-law Christine Furru. Stranger to no one, he was loved by countless other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Dolores Furru, and brothers Larry and Michael.

Butch attended Blessed Sacrament, St. Alphonsus School and Boys Tech. A lifelong learner with a curious mind, he believed there was always something new to discover. Even later in life, he enrolled in night classes to learn American Sign Language, embracing the opportunity to expand his knowledge and connect with others.

Butch proudly served his country in the United States Navy for eight years. A humble sailor and devoted patriot, he deeply loved his country and believed that voting was not only a right, but a duty shared by every American. Our family finds comfort in knowing that he passed on the Fourth of July—a day that so perfectly reflected the values he held dear and the country he faithfully served.

A dedicated provider, Butch spent his career at Central Steel & Wire, where he worked for 34 years until his retirement. His strong work ethic and quiet dependability never went unnoticed. Even in retirement, he continued caring for others through his "volunteer job” at Heritage Square assisting physical therapy patients and offering encouragement wherever he could.

Family was the center of Butch's world. He spent his days alongside his beloved wife, whose companionship he treasured and whose love was the foundation of his life for the 69 years they shared together.

He was a loving father, a trusted friend, a patient teacher, and a steady presence who kept his family grounded in what truly mattered.

There was no role he cherished more than being Grandpa. His granddaughters were the light of his life, and he was endlessly proud of each of them. His heart grew even fuller with the arrival of his great-grandchildren, with whom he shared a special bond. It wasn’t unusual to find him down on the floor, fully immersed in play.

A dear friend to Chris and the late Bob Chappie, Butch treasured the time he and Barbara spent with them. Whether gathered around the card table or, in more recent years, enjoying lively games of Yahtzee, those moments were filled with laughter, friendly competition, and the kind of friendship that created lasting memories.

Nothing made Butch happier than a visit from family or friends. His door was always open, and no one ever left without hearing they were welcome back anytime. His recliner was always the most sought-after seat in the house, and he never hesitated to give it up for someone else. With his easy smile, quick wit, and genuine interest in others, he had a way of making everyone feel at home. He found joy in good conversation, laughter, and creating memories with the people he loved most.

Butch appreciated life's simple pleasures. Sitting out in the “barn” (garage) was his favorite place to be, whether the weather called for shorts or a snowsuit. He loved having a cold beer, perched on the tailgate of his 1997 Toyota truck, enjoying cheese and sausage, fresh air, and good company. He was an avid golfer, an astute Sheepshead player, he often listened to talk radio and watched Westerns and took pride in planting impatiens each spring. He liked to tinker and there was always a project to tackle. While he approached every task with determination, those who knew him best understood there was always a good-natured 2% margin of error—something that only added to his charm.

The legacy Butch leaves behind will continue to live on through the family he loved so deeply and the countless lives he touched. He is already missed beyond words, but his love, laughter, and unwavering spirit will remain with those who knew him. If he were here today, he would undoubtedly remind us that even in life's most difficult moments, "Life is good."

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 15th, 2026, from 10:00 AM until time of service at 12:00 PM at the Max A. Sass & Sons Greenridge Chapel (4747 S. 60th Street, Greenfield, WI) Interment to follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Salvation Army, an organization that Butch generously supported throughout the years.