Early in the day on Christmas Eve, Matthew (Matt) Butcher Jr passed away at home with his loving wife Melissa by his side. Matt was the luckiest guy he “never worked a day in his life” taking care of animals and working on classic car restorations!
Matt was 3rd generation horseman doing everything from training, breeding, racing, and shoeing many world champion/record breaking horses. His love of and care of animals is second to none; a definite horse whisperer! Under the guidance of his father Matt Butcher Sr, Matt Jr began driving in harness races at age 12. He went on to train and drive Enough Talk, whom he sold and would go on to win the Breeder’s Crown for aged trotters.
Matt was always teaching others tricks of the many trades he had mastered. He enjoyed seeing others learn and be successful with these skills, especially when the outcome was a win, place, or show! Matt showed love for others by always being a helping hand when called upon.
His is survived by his wife, Melissa, step children Isabelle and Alexander Witt, sisters Jacquie (Tom) Sheffield and Vena (Leon) Reynolds, nieces Karen (Mike) Hall, Monica (Brian) Haun; nephews Peter Fish and Matthew (Miranda) Sheffield, and great nephew Preston Haun who loved being spoiled by his GUM (Great Uncle Matt).
Matt is whole again and is watching all the great races pass by as he rests peacefully in the grandstand with his father! As per Matt’s wishes, there will be no services, he was adamant only parties! Looking forward to a special day to honor him during the 2024 Harness Racing Meet at Saratoga.
www.compassionatefuneralcare.com/obituary/MatthewMatt-ButcherJr