Final Salute

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Arnold (Butch) Charles Shimota, age 51, a proud U.S. Navy Seabee retiree who left this world on July 18, 2025 at his home in Veseli.
Butch was born on February 21, 1974 at Queen of Peace Hospital in New Prague, MN to Arnold and Victoria (Hansen) Shimota. Butch attended grade school at Lonsdale, New Market, Veseli (LNMV) and graduated from the New Prague High School. Butch served in the U.S. Navy reserves as a heavy equipment operator in the Seabees which included several deployments throughout his career. He lived a life marked by service, strength, and selflessness. During his time in the Navy Seabees, he traveled the world, built the unbuildable, and forged lifelong bonds with his fellow servicemen and women. His service instilled in him a tireless work ethic and a deep love for his country, values he carried with him long after his service.
A true jack of all trades, Butch could fix, build, or rig just about anything (and usually did) for anyone who needed it. Whether it was a neighbor’s leaky faucet, or a friends lawn mower, he showed up with his tools, a smile, and no expectation other than a cold drink and a good conversation.
When he wasn’t helping others, Butch found peace in the woods or on the water. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, always chasing the next sunrise or reeling in stories that only grew bigger over time. His love for the outdoors was matched only by the joy he found in sharing those moments with his family and friends.
Above all, Butch was a devoted son, brother, uncle and friend to all. His home was always open, the fridge always open, and laughter and deep conversation was never in short supply. He led by example and always lent a hand when someone needed it.
Butch is survived by his parents Arnold and Victoria (Hansen) Shimota, Tresa Mazurek, Bernie (Todd) Gramley, Daniel (Trista) Shimota, and David Shimota. He is also survived by his 12 nieces and nephews and 1 great nephew. He leaves behind a large extended family and community of friends who will miss his humor, generosity, and unwavering presence. Fair winds and following seas, Butch. You built more than roads and buildings-you built a legacy of love, loyalty, and service that will live on in all of us.
Celebration of Butch’s life will be held on Friday July 25th, 2025 at the Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Veseli. Visitation will be from 8:00 am – 11:00 am followed by Mass of Christian Burial. Interment: St. John’s Cemetery, Veseli. Gathering for friends and family will follow at the American Legion in Lonsdale.