Mr. Butch Lemke of Hot Springs, AR, departed this life on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Heth, AR, at the age of 55.

He was born on January 18, 1970, in West Memphis, AR, the son of Roy Lester Lemke and Martha Diane Luker Lemke.

Butch spent most of his life working hard and helping others, earning a reputation as someone who could do just about anything that was needed.  He worked in accounting and dispatch and had been employed with Small Trucking, LLC in Heth for the past 14 months.  During the week, he stayed in Heth for work, and on weekends, he returned home to help care for his aunt – demonstrating the deep sense of duty and compassion that defined his life.

Butch had a passion for carpentry and took great pride in restoring old houses and cars.  He loved to travel and cherished the companionship of his beloved dog, Maggie.

Butch was deeply committed to serving his community.  He worked closely with the American Legion, the United Way, and a personal charity of his own.  His generosity knew no bounds – he was a kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back if he thought you needed it.  Through both his work and his service, Butch made a lasting impact on those around him.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Martha Diane Reed and his husband, John Cooley.   He is survived by:
One sister, Paula (Mack) Small of Heth, AR,  one Son ,Travis Lemke of Palestine, AR .His Stepdad, Ralph Reed of Palestine, AR, his dad, Roy Lemke of Oregon, one aunt, Judy Russell of Hot Springs, AR, one niece, Kimberly Small, two Nephews,  Mack Small III and Kirk Kennedy II

Many friends from Florida and special friends, Matt & Mallory Fetzer.