It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Retired Brother James Brute, who left us on January 18th, 2026, at the age of 97. Born on August 11, 1928, Brother Brute dedicated his life to serving others, including his 30 years of service to American Airlines.
Brother Brute began his career with American Airlines in 1964 and worked tirelessly until his retirement in 1994 as an Inspector. His commitment to our airline and our union was unwavering, and his contributions will not be forgotten.
We ask that you keep the Brute family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the memories of Brother Brute’s life and legacy, and may they be surrounded by love and support as they navigate their grief.
Brother Brute will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his passing leaves a void in our union family. We honor his memory and celebrate his life, and we will continue to support his loved ones in the days ahead.
Rest in peace, Brother Brute. Your service and dedication will never be forgotten.
Obituary for James Lee Bute
Bute, James Lee (Jim), 97, passed away January 18, 2026 at home from CML. He was born August 11, 1928 on a farm near Alpha in Jackson County, Minnesota to James Laverne and Mattie Ellen (nee Hartzler) Bute.
He attended rural schools (district 19 & 94) in Jackson County. He graduated from Hesston Academy in Hesston, Kansas and Spartan School of Aeronautics in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
He served in the United States Air Force from 1950 to 1954 during the Korean War as an aircraft mechanic and as a flight mechanic on a B-29 crew where he made more than 50 trips on weather reconnaissance missions out of Eielson A.F.B., Alaska. He married Donna Marie Keutzer of Jackson, Minnesota at Windom on December 11, 1954, at the Evangelical Lutheran Church. They farmed near Alpha for several years before moving to Tulsa, Oklahoma where he worked for American Airlines as an NDT Instructor and Aircraft Mechanic for Thirty years. He retired in 1994.
He was also a pilot and flight instructor and worked as a freelance flight instructor in the Tulsa area.
He was a longtime member of Bethany Lutheran Church, where he served on the council as Deacon, Worship and Music Committee member and Head Usher. He was also a member of American Mensa LTD, Air Force Association, American Airlines, Three Diamond Club and Skyblazers Flying Club. In American Legion, Post 237, he served as Sergeant-at-Arms and as Adjutant.
He was a past member of Skyways Flying Club where he served as Safety Officer and Maintenance Officer, and past member of Oklahoma Airmen serving as secretary.
He is survived by his son, David and wife Rhonda of Branson, Missouri; daughter, Michelle and husband, Scott Hubbard of Perkins, Oklahoma; Grandson, Bradley and wife, Alea Hubbard on Owenton, Kentucky; granddaughter Laura Kalka of Carney, Oklahoma; grandson, Brandon Hubbard of Perkins, Oklahoma; grandsons, Paul and Jonathan Bute of Branson, Missouri; great grandchildren, Karlie and Benjamin Kalka; great grandchildren, Catlin and Dillon Hubbard; sister Barbara Bender of La Junta, Colorado; brother in law, Joe Birkey of Twin Falls, Idaho and many nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his wife, Donna Bute; sisters, Mary Valeria Bute, Neva Kathryn Shetler, Virginia An Birkey, parents, James and Mattie Bute and grandsons, Jeffrey Daniel Hubbard and James D. Bute.
Funeral Services will be 11:00AM, Thursday, January 22, 2026 at the Fellowship Lutheran Church, 6727 South Sheridan Rd., Tulsa, Oklahoma.