Ronald Sem, age 84, passed away peacefully at home on March 8, 2026, surrounded by family. Ron, born in 1941 to Ida and Kenneth Sem, survived by his loving wife, Diane, and his sons, Michael and Matthew. Ron is also survived by his sisters, Frances Mcllroy and Delores Urevick. He was preceded in death by his brother, Kenny.
Ron attended Minot High School and the University of North Dakota, graduating in 1964. He took his first teaching job in Duluth. In 1968, they moved back to North Dakota and Ron got his master's degree in teaching at UND in 1969. In 1970, he became employed as a marketing instructor in Wausau. After teaching there for 24 years, he became Dean of the Business Department in 1994, a position he held until his retirement in 2000. After retirement, Ron began attending many political activities and events. As part of his activism, he would send letters to the editor of the local paper and to members of political offices.
Ron played basketball at Minot High School and received a scholarship to play basketball for 4 years at UND. His love of sports continued throughout his life after his playing days were over, as evidenced by many family activities that were centered around sports. Ron and his family attended many professional football, baseball, basketball, and tennis events. In addition, through Ron's efforts, his family was able to attend their first NCAA basketball tournament in Minneapolis. They also had regular family game nights, which usually became quite lively. Ron loved his boys dearly and used their mutual participation in sports to teach them life lessons they have relied on since childhood.
Ron met his wife in Grand Forks while at UND. They started dating in 1960 and were married in Fall of 1962, a partnership that would last many years. They enjoyed playing golf, tennis, and racquetball together. They also loved riding their bikes all around the Wausau area. In addition, they took pleasure dining out and playing cards in the company of their friends.
Besides his accomplishments and recreational pursuits, Ron will be forever remembered as a kind and caring man with a wonderful sense of humor. A celebration of his life will be held this summer. His family would like to thank the teams of Heartland Hospice for all of the care they provided, along with the John J Buettgen Funeral Home for their assistance.
