Obituary of Margaret K. Butler

Margaret Van Atta Butler, our "Fierce Mama Bear" passed away peacefully at home on January 20, 2026, leaving us to fend for ourselves, as she always prepared us to do. Anyone who knew her would quickly realize that she was always leaving people behind. She outpaced everyone. She always had somewhere to be and something to do! She wanted to get there fast and never waste time. Margaret was born in Binghamton, New York on March 3,1936 to Michael and Helen Kahanic, part of a family shaped by immigrant roots, where even the spelling of last names carried mystery and history. She shared close bonds with her sisters who became surrogate mothers in her teenage years. Their families were essential to her health and well-being, and success as a mom and teacher. Margaret's niece, Sandra Crounse and her relatives were her closest family. Margaret and Sandra were only a few years apart and grew up as "sisters". So many countless memories, late night phone calls and family parties. Our cousin, Jim Santoni, was also an enormous help to all of us during this difficult time. Jim's mother Ann was also a favorite sister. Margaret earned a BA from Harpur College. She was determined to earn her Master's degree from Cortland State. Many nights we worried that she wouldn't make it home to Brackney PA in the snow and ice at night. She always made it back as her kids cheered when we saw the VW Bug headlights coming up the driveway. Becoming a teacher was not just a profession but a calling for Margaret. She was stern but inspiring. She cared deeply for every student who walked through her classroom door. She could be found searching beaches and forests for specimens for science class. She rarely missed a day and was a great role model! Adventures at Quaker Lake PA began in 1957 when Margaret and her first husband, D. Scott Van Atta married. Unplowed, icy dirt roads, frozen pipes and snowy ditches made country life a challenge in the winter months, but there were many crackling fires and homemade meals to make everyone feel warm and content. The arrival of spring and summer were a relief when gardening and hanging at the lake were Margaret's favorite things to do. Swimming was relegated to one day at the end of the summer as she said it was "ice cold". Having four children in five years without a car was no small feat. When she found herself as a single mother with a house full of teenagers (sometimes incorrigible!) she never faltered. She raised us by her moral compass and sound advice (we never took that advice!) When her son Reuel died of cancer at 58 her grief seemed overwhelming. In time she became softer and more vulnerable, never hesitating to tell her family and friends she loved them or lean in for a hug. In 1989 Margaret was fortunate to meet her second husband, Joseph Butler at University Singles. They were a wonderful match. They traveled the world together, always looking for new places to explore. They shared a love of art and music. They were known for dancing all around the living room as if no one was watching. Joe's children and grandchildren were treasured as if they were her own. Because her energy knew no bounds, Margaret tried many different sports. She met many of her friends playing tennis, golf and swimming at the gym. She volunteered in her spare time with hospice and Meals on Wheels among many others. Margaret's friends were her second family. Angie, Anita, Carole, Cathy, Elysyia, Jan, Laura, Linda, Mary, Marianne and Roseann are just a few of the friends in her inner circle. Caring and loyal friends, they all enjoyed her company in their own way. From Friday night cocktails to "Thelma and Louise " Sunday convertible rides, Margaret's chums were always ready with fun times! Margaret loved to cook and bake, delivering muffins and breads to neighbors and family every week. She taught her granddaughter Sara how to make kolaches, applesauce and blueberry pie. Her Thanksgiving dinner was always a huge success every year. Dinner was a formal affair in winter with candlelight, though we were always trying to burn the house down! Margaret was predeceased by: her mother and father, her siblings: Mary, John, George, Julie, Helen, Peter and Anne, former spouse D.Scott Van Atta, second husband Joseph Butler and her son, Reuel Van Atta. She is survived by: Inge Van Atta (Allen), Renn Van Atta and Todd Van Atta (Melodie and granddaughter Lizzy). Four grandchildren: Lech Studzinski, Sara Studzinski, Will Van Atta and Sydney Van Atta. Always loved, never forgotten, forever missed. Services and burial will be private.