BESSEMER, Mich. – August "Butch" Semmerling, 82, a lifelong resident of Bessemer, passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Aspirus St. Luke's Hospital in Duluth, Minnesota, with family at his side.

Butch was born on Oct. 3, 1942, in Bessemer, a son of August Sr. and Mary (Forno) Semmerling. He attended St. Sebastian grade school and graduated from A.D. Johnston High School in 1960.

Butch worked and managed the family farm he inherited from his father, which was homesteaded by his grandfather in the 1800s. It was a dairy farm and then turned into a cow-calf operation. He grew oats, hay and back in the day potatoes. The cattle were sold in 2023, and most of the land in 2025. Butch also operated a snowmobile repair business for many years.

Butch was a committed volunteer with the Bessemer Fire Department for 47 years, and at times served as fire chief. He was a dedicated member of the Bessemer School Board for 34 years, proudly served on the Bessemer City Council, and was a supporting member of the Farm Agency Board and the Tired Iron Club. Butch enjoyed farming and being active in the community of Bessemer. He took pleasure snowmobiling for many years and in his earlier years riding his horses.

Butch is survived by a sister, Elizabeth Semmerling, Burnsville, Minnesota; a brother, Paul (Sheila) Semmerling, Bessemer; two nephews, Josh and Lee; a niece, Kalyn Bonnelly; and four great-nephews and two great-nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Out of respect for Butch's wishes, cremation has taken place. There will not be a funeral service. A celebration of life will be held by his family at a later date.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Aspirus Ironwood Hospital Emergency Room doctor and staff and Aspirus St. Luke's Hospital for their excellent care of Butch.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.