Phillip Edward “Butch” Link Jr., 74, of Morgantown, passed away in his home Thursday, October 31, 2024, with his wife and daughter by his side. He was born January 23, 1950, in Cleveland, Ohio, a son of the late Phillip Edward Link, Sr. and JoClara Miles Link.
Butch spent most of his life in Morgantown and was a member of Morgantown High School Class of 1968.
In 1969, he met his wife, Nancy, while playing cards in the West Virginia University Mountainlair. They remained together for 55 years, married and became the parents of their daughter, Erica.
Butch learned and loved the trade of welding and was employed by WVU for over 40 years. He served as a union executive for ACE and was dedicated to guarding and defending the rights of employees.
He enjoyed cooking, especially grilling outside, playing basketball and softball, was an avid WVU and Pittsburgh Steelers football fan, and loved spending time socializing with friends and neighbors. He never met a stranger and enjoyed nothing more than good conversation no matter the topic.
His compassion and caring for others were his greatest attributes. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. He was admired as and will be remembered as a man of integrity and kindness.
In addition to wife, Nancy and daughter, Erica Link, he is survived by a sister, Toni Cartwright; brother, Mike (Bea) Link; sister, Kathy Strader; and brother, Ronald Link. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.
His family gives a special thanks to WVU Medicine Hospice, especially Laura, Stacy, and Tricia.
Friends and family will be received from 2 until the time of the memorial service at 3 p.m. Saturday, November 23, in Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce Street, Morgantown.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org; or Animal Friends of North Central West Virginia, 252 Brewer Road, Morgantown, WV 26508 or at www.animalfriendswv.org.
Hastings Funeral Home has been entrusted with cremation arrangements and condolences may be made to the family at www.hastingsfuneral
home.com