Virgil Clayton "Bud" Needler Jr., 75, of Thornton, Colorado, passed away peacefully on May 31,
2025, at 12:45 PM. Born on July 1, 1949, in Muncie, Indiana, Bud was the beloved son of the late Virgil Clayton Needler Sr. and Lillie Iris (Ashby) Needler.

Bud proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, carrying the
discipline and honor of his service throughout his life. He went on to build a career as a facilities
maintenance specialist, a trade that perfectly suited his love for working with his hands. Whether
he was crafting something in his woodshop or lending a hand to fix what others could not, Bud
approached every task with care, patience, and pride.

A devout Catholic, Bud was a dedicated member of his parish, where he served faithfully as an
usher. His faith was central to his life, and he found strength and purpose in his relationship with
God. He was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), where he formed lifelong bonds and contributed generously to his community.
Known to family and friends simply as "Bud," he was a man of quiet strength and deep devotion-
especially to his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Ann (Greenwell) Needler, who stood by his side through many seasons of life. Bud was a proud father and stepfather to James Haider, David Haider, Brian (Jennifer) Booker, Cynthia (David) Minnie, Kevin (Jennifer) Booker, and David Booker. He was preceded in death by his stepson Timothy Booker.
Bud is also survived by his two sisters, Iris Kaye Stanley and Jackie Sue Riddle-Beverly, as well as his 16 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride.
His gentle spirit, quick wit, and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
There will be a visitation on June 25, 2025, from 4- 6 p.m. at Paynic Home for Funerals.  A funeral Mass to honor Bud's life and faith will be held at 11 a.m. June 26 at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Wood River. Following the mass Bud's ashes will be put to rest at St. Joseph's Cemetery in Alton, Illinois.
Bud Needler will be remembered as a faithful servant, a loving husband, a proud veteran, and a
steady, guiding hand in the lives of many. May he rest in eternal peace.