Obituary of Paul John Butler

Paul J. Butler, 55, of Basking Ridge, NJ passed away Thursday, March 7th, 2019 following a courageous two-year battle with brain cancer. He is survived by his two sons, Andrew and Nicholas; his girlfriend, Lena Khatcherian; his mother, Jenny Butler; and his sister, Joy Dennis. He is preceded in death by his father, John Butler. 

A native of England, Paul came to America on a soccer scholarship and subsequently became an All-American at Rollins College before playing professionally in Orlando. He settled in America, establishing a 32-year career in the Insurance industry, eventually becoming President of the Marine Division at the Hanover Insurance Group. His proudest achievement was raising his two sons, who were by his side throughout his illness. 

While in New Jersey, Paul continued his soccer career with the Basking Ridge Rovers. Over the course of two decades, the Rovers and their families would become Paul’s dearest friends. Together, they would share the experiences of their professional success, their passion for sport, and raising their families, sharing many a Guinness along the way.

In addition to playing soccer, Paul was a lifelong supporter of The Arsenal Football Club, an avid golfer, and a wine enthusiast, a passion he shared with Lena Khatcherian, with whom he also loved to travel. 

He met Lena in 2013, and together they shared a loving relationship, full of laughter, fond memories, and unforgettable experiences.

Paul will be fondly remembered as a consummate professional, a loving friend & partner, and a devoted father.