Gerald Lee "Butch" Vokes
July 9, 1936 - January 1, 2022 (Age 85)
Gerald Lee “Butch” Vokes, 85, of New Kensington, passed away Saturday, January 1, 2022, surrounded by his loving family, who were by his side every step of the way. He was born July 9, 1936, to the late Benjamin & Agnes Payonk Vokes.
Butch began his lifelong work at the age of 15 in commercial and residential masonry, working alongside his brother, Glenn. Known for his wisdom and wit, he was a self-taught Jack of all Trades, being able to build or fix anything. Butch enjoyed gardening, planting tomatoes, peppers, lettuce and all sorts of flowers. He enjoyed sports, especially football, listening to country music, loved watching old westerns, especially Gene Autry, and going to the American Legion Post 868 and Hanes Tavern, both of Lower Burrell, where he would meet his family and friends. He especially loved spending time with family, including his dog, Pixie. Butch was a member of St. Mary of Czestochowa, New Kensington.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Weaver Vokes; 3 brothers, Glenn Sr., Joseph Sr. & Howard Vokes; and sisters, Elizabeth Ann Peterson and Margaret Kratzer.
Gerald is survived by his son, Gerald Lee (Carol) Jr., of South Carolina; daughters, Lois (Joseph) Kolek and Tammy (Fred) Gatto, with whom he made his home for the past 6 months, both of Lower Burrell; 3 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; brother, Eugene Vokes Sr.; and sisters, Barbara Beere, Josephine “Josie” Rakes and Jane Callahan. A viewing and Blessing Service were held in the Joseph J. Cardaro Funeral Home, 1125 Kenneth Ave. New Kensington, 724-337-3325. Private entombment was in Greenwood Memorial Park, Lower Burrell.
