Allen F. “Butch” Ivey II, 75 of Valparaiso, passed away Saturday, February 8, 2025. He was born November 23, 1949 in Gary, Indiana to the late Allen F. and Frances M. (Martinez) Ivey. A 1967 graduate of Andrean High School, Butch served as a dental assistant in the U.S. Army and made his career as a switchman for CSX Railroad, retiring in 2009. Shortly after his retirement, he went to work at Kenwal Steel and retired in 2024. Butch was an avid sports fan, cheering for his Chicago Bears and St. Louis Cardinals. He lived by this motto, “There is no such thing as strangers, they are just people you haven’t met yet.”
On December 21, 1995, Butch married Penny Keegan-Baxter who survives along with their children, Aimee (John) Powell, Samuel Ivey, Katherine Ivey, Stephanie (Jonathan) Baxter-Ivey, James W. Baxter, and Alison (Michael) Baxter-Giunta; grandchildren, Christopher, Marissa, Nicholas, Gabriella, Brittini, Emma, Abel, Jackson, Olivia, Liam, and Lucy; great grandson, Weston; sister, Eva D. Brickman; and many nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Gathering will be held on Thursday, February 13, 2025 from 3:00-5:00 PM at Moeller Funeral Home 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso with a Memorial Service beginning at 5:00 PM. The family requests that you wear your favorite Bears or Cardinals gear to honor Butch. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Joseph’s Carmelite Home.
GUESTBOOK
You left me with so many cherished memories. Rest easy, Cuz. Hug everyone for me! -Kathee Sanchez-Baird
Butch was a fun cousin to have. He was particularly welcoming when I was new to the family and I’ve always appreciated that. Rest in peace cousin! -Carol Gonzales
My love, heart, and sincere condolences are there with you all. Asking God to ease your pain and give you all strength during this sad time! -Victoria and Manuel Martinez
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Butch. He was a great person, friend, neighbor, and family man. He will be greatly missed. Rest in peace Butch. Our deepest condolences to Penney and Stephenie as well as the rest of Butches family and friends. -Stephen and Kathie Witherspoon
Oh Butch, I am sooo very sorry to read of your passing...what a great guy and friend! I just saw you at the class of 67 birthday party in September! You have always been my friend since we met in High School! You will be missed my friend xxoo. Penny, I am here for you if you need me...hugs to you and your family xxoo -Melinda McKinney
I love u Uncle Butch.. u took really good care of my Aunt Penny and were loved by all ur children and grandchildren. I know I love you and just loved how u were just a man’s man. Best way to put it you got things done and u will be greatly missed and cherished forever. -Gary Jr
Uncle Butch, Whether going to a Chicago Blackhawk game or just hanging out, I only had fun and fond memories with you. You made a lasting impact on me back in the day when I was just a young man! I will always treasure the time I had spent with you! You now have front row seat to all your beloved Bears games! RIP. -Dave Borkowski
It is with great sadness that I am sending our deepest condolences and love to the family concerning the passing of Butch. On behalf of my Dad and Mom, Bill and Joyce Nelson, Mike Nelson and myself and our whole family (Teagan Justin and James)we have many fond memories of Butch and our love for him and the beautiful family he made is forever. He truly was a light to us all and will be missed.Prayers for peace to all friends and family who are grieving. Sincerely, -Suze Nelson Gaskill and the Nelson Family
Sorry to hear of your passing. Sending my prayers and condolences to your family. You were a great man. I learned so much from you throughout the years working together. You will be missed. -James (Jp) Walsh
My deepest condolences to his wife Penny and Stephenie and Otero family members. I join the grief that overwhelms the entire family, due to the death of their beloved Father. My dear Estefy receives a big hug from, -Jenny Ramos, Esperanza y José Luis
Hey Poison, sorry you had to leave us so soon, thank you for all the railroad memories, I'll always remember you and Larry my B&OCT BROTHERS /STAR BROTHERS, because we share the same birthday and have and always will remember you on November 23 . To all the family in give my condolences, especially Penny and Children. Hope to see you again. Love you my Brother, -Raul Orozco
Butch will bet missed dearly. Alan and I have our deepest sympathies. Penny, Stephanie and family, know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Love you, Penny. -Nancy Naggatz
Rest in peace my dear friend and uncle. Thank you for opening your heart to myself and my family, for my entire life. Thank you for treating my to a Bear's game together several times, near our November birthdays. You were a wonderful people person, and it was always fun having your company at gatherings. I was shocked and saddened at your passing, but will remember the joy you brought to my life, and many others. Love you forever, -Steven D. Borkowski, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
So sorry for your loss. Was talking to him at luncheon Monday. I remember that I was always grateful to him. I remember being down and he showed respect and comradery to me when I really needed it. I'm sure he's in heaven. -Raymond Foley
Uncle Butch, you are in the best place you could possibly be, where you can be happy, healthy and free. Hug our family that resides in Heaven with you, Thank you for your kindness. You always showed so much kindness when I posted pictures of the kids, or the grand baby, always took time to wish a happy birthday. Your heart was big and caring and kind. Lots of Love from here on earth to you up above. -Davina Southerland (Borkowski)