Long-Time St. Patrick's Day Chicago River Dyer Recognized

Clarendon Hills, IL - Shamrock Chicago, led by a council of esteemed business and civic leaders, on Thursday recognized Michael Butler, one of the original organizers of the family that annually dyes the Chicago River green for St. Patrick’s Day.

The Butler family, along with Rowan family, exemplify strong Chicago Irish pride and for five decades have been an important part of St. Patrick’s day celebrations.

During the presentation at The Birches Assisted Living in Clarendon Hills, Shamrock Chicago recognized Butler for his vast contributions and gifted him with a signed Patrick Kane Chicago Blackhawks jersey, provided by the United Center, one of buildings that annually participates in the greening of the city.

The event was attended by Mike's wife of 56 years, Marlene, and his daughters and grandchildren. Mike and Marlene were long-time residents of Darien.

Tom Rowan, who has worked beside Butler for the river dyeing for decades, gave an overview of how the river dyeing began. Butler’s grandson, Travis Horath, demonstrated the dyeing technique and transformed the fountain outside Butler’s assisted living facility to a green color using the closely-guarded dye recipe. Mike's 8-year-old granddaughter, Grace, performed an Irish dance for those in attendance. A reception for residents and the family followed the formal presentation.

Shamrock Chicago is an initiative launched four years ago to bring together diverse groups supporting Chicago’s rich Irish heritage and strengthen cultural ties to Ireland. The organization works to "green" the lights on iconic Chicago buildings and institutions to continue the city’s tradition as the “Greenest City in the World.”

For more information on Shamrock Chicago, council members and this year’s “greened” buildings, please visit the website at shamrockchicago2016.com.

Story and photos submitted by Shamrock Chicago.