Dr. Robert Walker Butler, beloved husband and stepfather, died in his home on Wednesday, January 14, 2015 after a courageous and difficult battle with cancer. Robert is survived by his wife, Sarah Barnett, and stepdaughters Katherine, Christina, and Rebecca.

Robert was born in Chicago and later lived in Florida where he earned a BA at the University of West Florida.  He went to graduate school in Birmingham at UAB, and from there Robert earned his doctoral degree in clinical psychology at The Ohio State University in 1985.  He completed a post-doctoral fellowship/residency in clinical neuropsychology at UCLA in 1987. While focusing on pediatric neuropsychology, Dr. Butler became one of the premier clinicians and researchers in the field of neuropsychologically-based cognitive rehabilitation with pediatric cancer survivors.  He later earned board certification in clinical neuropsychology through the American Board of Professional Psychology.  Dr. Butler was a professor who taught, supervised, and nurtured many developing neuropsychologists through his positions at Sloan Kettering in New York and Oregon Health & Sciences University in Portland.  His research and clinical work in cognitive rehabilitation was ground breaking and improved the lives of countless children. He was a skilled clinician who shined most brightly when working with young cancer survivors.

Robert and Sarah met and fell in love in 2001 and were married on a Kauai beach in 2003. They were the loves of each other’s lives, and he will remain forever in her heart. 

Robert was devoted to his cherished golden retrievers Molly Bob and Megan, both deceased, and Maureen “Mo,” who along his cat “Sparky” were his constant companions.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert’s name to one of his favorite charities, The Humane Society of the United States: http://action.humanesociety.org/goto/robertbutler

A celebration of life will be held in Robert’s honor in mid February. Please contact family members for details.