Francis George Hyatt

Francis (Butch) George Hyatt passed away peacefully at age 71 due to complications from pneumonia on December 5th, 2023, at Meriter Hospital in Madison, WI. Butch was born on October 15th, 1952, in Portage, WI, to Gilbert and Louise (Gander) Hyatt and was the beloved husband of Mary Lou (Karls) Hyatt for 51 years. He was the loving father of Daniel (Vicki) Hyatt and Kevin Hyatt and the proud grandfather of Ethan, Rebecca, Rhonda, and Miley.

Butch is survived by his wife, Mary Lou, as well as his brother, Anthony (Sally) Hyatt and sisters-in-law Joan Hyatt, and Sue Hyatt. He is further survived by his in-laws, Tom (Faye) Farr, Bob (Nina) Farr, Sandy Cook, Jack (Deb) Karls, Bill Karls,  and Susan Frankland; his close cousin, Gary (Carolyn) Gander; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Butch was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings, Thomas, Mark, David (Ruth, Kathryn), John, Linda, Mary, and Joseph. Also by his parents-in-law, Alois (Moose) and Marjorie Karls; and siblings-in-law, Betty (Warren) Weldon, Barbara Lunsford, and Jack Frankland.

Butch was a man of many talents: roofer, truck and school bus driver, welder, and an electrician for IBEW Local 159, which he retired from. He was also one of the proud co-founders of Butch and Tony's Wrecking Crew. Their slogan was “If you need it done fast, don't call us.” He had many interests over the years, including boating, skiing, golfing, bowling, traveling to Ho-Chunk Casino, and playing co-ed softball. Butch also enjoyed coaching the Dane women's fast-pitch softball team in earlier years, where he met his future wife, Mary Lou. Butch was known for his sense of humor, his love of motorcycles, and his habit of pulling pranks on his family members. He was an avid player of euchre, and was an excellent baker. He specialized in making cookies and peanut butter fudge. He loved his family deeply and was always there when someone needed him.

Butch was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Especially his furry family of pets, which were very special to him and brought him immense joy.

A celebration of life will be held on December 23rd, 2023, at the American Legion Post 503 at 124 North Military Road Dane, WI, from 1-6PM, with a service of remembrance taking place at 3PM.