Mr. Marvin "Butch" Walling West

Marvin "Butch" West, 88, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana, on what would have been his 66th wedding anniversary. Just two years after the passing of his beloved wife Janet, Butch has now joined her in eternal rest.

Born to Harold and Martha West in South Bend, Indiana, Butch would go on to attend Wabash College, where he ran track and was a member of Delta Tau Delta Fraternity. He proudly served in the U.S. Army as a radio operator in Harrogate, England, and later took part in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. in 2018 to commemorate his service.

Shortly after returning from service, he began working for his father-in-law, Harrison Graver. He would eventually take over the company, spending the coming years leading up to his retirement providing specialty products to building owners and developers across the Midwest. Butch was known for his integrity, kindness, and wit. He coached both his sons in Little League, helped others grow through faith-based mentoring, and never stopped learning or giving.

Butch built his life around faith, family, and service. He married Janet Graver in 1960, beginning a remarkable 64-year partnership rooted in love, hospitality, and shared ministry. In their early 30’s Butch and Jan helped to initiate SNIBS (Sunday Night Is Bible Study). This incredible group met for over 50 years. He was also a devoted member of Zionsville Presbyterian Church, participating in many Great Banquets, and was active in Second Half Adventures, Kairos Prison Ministry, Wheeler Mission, and youth tutoring, always serving quietly and with deep dedication.

He and Janet were adventurers at heart—traveling often, especially to their beloved England, where they lived during their early marriage. They camped often with their kids and spent many summer days at Dale Hollow Lake.

Butch also loved Studebakers, music, and Notre Dame football, attending countless car shows with friends and treasuring his time at Preservation Hall in New Orleans. Even in his later years, Butch could be found playing the washboard at Independence Village, where he spent his final chapter surrounded by a caring community. The family is especially grateful to everyone at Independence Village who made his last two years richer.

Butch was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Janet; his daughter, Kathy Sawyer; his parents, Harold and Martha West; and his sister, Marsha Goodman.

He is survived by his sons Christopher West and Gregory West; his son-in-law David Sawyer; his beloved grandchildren, David and Leah Sawyer; his sister-in-law, Jean Graver; and numerous nieces and nephews who were a source of constant joy throughout his life.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 1:00–3:00 PM at Zionsville Presbyterian Church, followed by a celebration of life service at 3:00 PM. All are welcome.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Community Assistance Ministry at Zionsville Presbyterian Church - https://zpchurch.churchcenter.com/giving

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