HOWARD ‘BUTCH’ JOSEPH ROUN, SR- Obituary
Howard “Butch” Joseph Roun, Sr., age 81, on Sunday, October 18, 2026, in Elk Township, New Jersey. He was born on September 16, 1945, in Camden, New Jersey, and was raised in Williamstown. Butch was the beloved husband of the late Catherine Grace “Cass” (née DiStefano) Roun, with whom he shared 39 years of marriage. Devoted father of the late Howard J. Roun, Jr., and his surviving wife, Amanda, and Denise A. Metcalf and her husband, Barry, Sr. Cherished grandfather of Barry Metcalf, Jr., and his wife, Katie, and Jessica Price and her husband, Martin, and the proud great-grandfather of Maxine and Cassidy Metcalf. Dear brother of Ruth Gallagher and the late Gene Roun and Betty Ann Bates. Son of the late David Edward and Ann Belle (née Baum) Roun and was also predeceased by his parents-in-law, Lois Jean (née Russell) Fowler and Samuel R. DiStephano.
Butch was a proud 1965 graduate of Williamstown High School. Following graduation, he honorably served four years in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, working as an aircraft mechanic. During his service, he spent 13 months overseas and earned the National Defense Service Medal and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal.
After completing his military service, Butch dedicated his working life to the open road as a self-employed long-haul truck driver. Over the years, he hauled a wide variety of goods, making trucking a lifelong career. His independence and dedication to his work reflected the hardworking nature that defined much of his life.
Butch spent much of his life in South Jersey, beginning in Williamstown, where he was raised. He later resided in Clayton for 15 years. Following the passing of his beloved wife, Cass, he spent several years living with his mother-in-law in Vineland before moving to Franklinville, where he lived with his sister for seven years. Most recently, he made his home in Elk Township with his daughter, Denise, where he spent the last four months of his life surrounded by family.
Butch was an active member of his community, having belonged to the Clayton Volunteer Fire Company and serving as a longtime member of the VFW in Franklinville. His military service and continued involvement with fellow veterans remained meaningful parts of his life.
In his free time, Butch enjoyed woodworking, hunting, and fishing. He appreciated the satisfaction of working with his hands and the opportunity to spend time outdoors. For many years, he also enjoyed completing word searches, a pastime that brought him hours of enjoyment.
Above all, Butch treasured his family. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him tremendous happiness. Whether sharing time together or simply enjoying their company, these family moments were among his most cherished.
Butch will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his years of service to his country, and his hardworking spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of love and treasured memories that will live on through the generations of family he leaves behind.
Relatives and friends are invited to this viewing on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the BARCLAY FUNERAL HOME, 208 Maple Street, Clayton. Funeral service and military honors to begin at 11:00 AM. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Butch to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or via https://donate.cancer.org. Sign the guestbook and send condolences at BarclayFuneralHome.net.