John Held

In Loving Memory of John "Butch" Held, Jr. John "Butch" Held, Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and proud member of the Choctaw community, passed away on January 20th at the age of 73. Born in Oklahoma City in 1950, Butch leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a life well-lived. Butch is survived by his loving wife, Martha, their son, Sam, and daughter, Amparo, brother David, and sister Katie. He also leaves behind six adoring grandchildren who brought immense joy to his life. Butch's journey was marked by incredible adventures and a commitment to service. After college, he joined the Peace Corps, where he spent two transformative years in Colombia. Living in this vibrant country, he taught baseball to prisoners, an experience that left an indelible mark on both him and those he served. It was during this time that Butch fell in love with Colombian culture, and it was there that he met Martha, the love of his life. The birth of his firstborn, Sam, added immeasurable joy to his Colombian chapter, creating a deep and lasting connection to the country that held a very special place in his heart for the rest of his life. Back home, Butch found immense pleasure in the simple joys of life. He had an extraordinary talent for crafting mouthwatering chili, a skill that left a lasting impression on family and friends alike. Whether it was a warm bowl shared on a chilly evening or a friendly chili cook-off, Butch's culinary creations brought people together. Butch had an eclectic taste in music and could often be found enjoying his favorite tunes. His love for music was a constant source of happiness, and the melodies he cherished will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him. A true fan of Oklahoma Sooner football, Butch's enthusiasm for the sport was infectious. He reveled in the victories and weathered the defeats with unwavering loyalty. His passion for the game created lasting bonds and unforgettable memories with family and friends. In addition to his love for food, music, and football, Butch had a green thumb and a love for gardening. The vibrant blooms and thriving plants in his garden reflected the care and attention he poured into every aspect of his life. Butch dedicated over 30 years of his life to the Texas Youth Commission, where he worked tirelessly to support and guide troubled youth. His commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others left an indelible mark on the community. As a proud member of the Choctaw community, Butch embraced and celebrated his heritage. His connection to the Choctaw culture added richness and depth to his life, and he took pride in passing on traditions to future generations. Beyond his accomplishments and passions, Butch will be remembered for his exceptional sense of humor. His infectious laughter and quick wit brought joy to every gathering, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere wherever he went. As we mourn the loss of John "Butch" Held, Jr., let us also celebrate the incredible life he lived. His love, laughter, and enduring legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace, and may his memory continue to bring comfort and inspiration to those who loved him. A celebration of life will be held at the Oasis restaurant, Sunset Room, in Austin, Texas on Saturday, March 9th from 3:30-7:00 pm.