Bobby "Butch" H. Head's Obituary
HEAD, Bobby H. “Butch,” age 79, of Waynesville and formerly of Springboro, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at St. Leonard CHI Living Community.
“Butch” was a nickname given to him by Santa early in his childhood. The next time he saw Santa, he insisted on being called “Butch,” just to be sure Santa knew exactly where to deliver his presents—and from that moment on, the name stuck, becoming the one by which many knew and loved him.
A proud graduate of Waynesville High School, class of 1965, Bobby was a standout athlete who competed in track, baseball, and football. He was especially proud to have been a member of Waynesville’s very first football team and held several track records for many years. His love of sports carried on throughout his life, including coaching his daughter’s softball team. He was also an avid bowler, participating in leagues year after year and achieving an impressive 299 game. A devoted sports fan, Bobby rarely missed a Cincinnati Reds game and enjoyed cheering on the Cleveland Browns.
Bobby dedicated over 25 years of service as a technician with High Industries in Springboro before retiring in 2011. He was a proud and longtime member of the Waynesville American Legion Post 615-SAL, where he enjoyed shooting pool and participating in the Legion’s pool league. He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Springboro, where he was recently honored as the oldest living member.
Bobby found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved country music and classic rock, and he was known for his warm smile, gentle nature, and positive spirit. He had a sweet and loving heart, a great sense of humor, and an infectious laugh that could brighten any room—even during difficult times. He never spoke an unkind word and had a special way of making everyone feel welcome.
Family meant everything to Bobby. He was incredibly proud of his children, Nathan, Josh, and Leah, and his grandson, Dakota. He cherished every moment spent with them. His beloved dog, Bella, was his constant companion, rarely leaving his side as he and Karen shared life’s adventures together. His sisters, Heather and Holly, adored their big brother and will forever hold close the words he shared with them in his final days: “I’ll love you both forever.”
Bobby enjoyed the outdoors, whether fishing, playing cards, or gathering with friends and family. He especially looked forward to Euchre nights every other Friday at the Eagles in Springboro, along with tournaments and time spent with friends. Bobby treasured annual family reunions at Caesar Creek State Park, trips to Ormond Beach, Florida, with Leah and her family, visits to Wisconsin to see Nathan, Josh, and Dakota, and relaxing getaways with Karen to her family’s lake property in Indiana—complete with campfires, fishing, cards, and laughter.
Over the years, Bobby developed a love for collecting eagles and crystals. He especially enjoyed mining for crystals in Hot Springs, Arkansas, with Karen, and adding to his cherished collection. A lifelong animal lover, Bobby once cared for a pet parakeet, pig, and even a squirrel, and had more recently welcomed the dog Kayla to their family. He will be remembered for his kindness, his laughter, and the way he brought people together.
Bobby was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Kasey Head (wife of Joshua); Nathan’s fiancée, Tamar; his parents, Robert and Clara Head; and his stepdaughter, Gretchen Fields.
He is survived by his best friend and loving companion of 25 years, Karen Oeters; his sons, Nathan Head and Josh Head; his daughter, Leah Head (Cody Mullikin); his stepson, Andy Slattery (Kendra); his grandchild, Dakota Tishman; his sisters, Heather (Mark) Lucas and Holly Cockerham (fiancé Matt Peters); Karen’s children, Lysa (Bill) Kosin and Ryan Oeters; along with many extended family members and dear friends.
The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home in Waynesville. A memorial service will follow at 4:00 PM, officiated by Life Celebrant Brian Bennett, with an open mic time for sharing heartfelt memories and stories.
Immediately following the service, a celebration of life will be held at the Waynesville American Legion Post 615, where family and friends are invited to gather for food, fellowship, and remembrance.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA in Bobby’s memory. Condolences may be shared with the family at http://www.stubbsconner.com.
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