Richard V. Arneson

Richard Virgil Arneson, 93, passed away on Thursday May 26 ^th . He was born on Sept 2nd, 1928, near a fine candy store (the Sweet Shop) in North La Crosse, WI to Virgil and Matilda Arneson. Also near his childhood home was the marsh and thus began his love of fine candies and exploring natural places.

He graduated from Aquinas High School in La Crosse and met what can only be best, and most accurately described as his soul mate, at the Sportsman Bowling Alley. They fell completely in love and became lifelong companions upon their marriage on September 23, 1950, at St Joseph Ridge Catholic Church.

From there he and his soulmate, Joan Irene Arneson, began their own family by selecting a home directly across from yet another fine ice cream/candy shop (Ranison Ice Cream). He loved babies, so much so that he and Joan wound up having eleven of them. He was an excellent father and would take his kids on excursions to parks, zoos, hiking trails and, if it was their lucky day, the Eagles Club for Geyser ( Be Wiser Buy Geyser! ) cheddar puffs and a pop.

He went on to work at the Cooler Company for many years as a shipping receiving clerk. He had an amazing mind for details and managing business and household affairs. He instinctively knew where to find quality products for better prices. He further honed his skills at Webster Lumber in Bangor, WI where he was a purchasing agent.

He was well respected in the community as an alderman/city councilperson. Known for his kindness, and sincerity, he had the ability to listen to people regardless of social position. He gave attention to those who did the work and never assumed he knew best. He always returned calls no matter what one may deem trivial.

He enjoyed weddings in the days of polka music and would dance with great joy. He loved watching the Green Bay Packers, watching TV, and going on trips after he was cajoled (Joan acted as a prodding agent). He also liked humor, and nostalgic conversations amongst gathered family and friends. And though he wasn’t one to verbalize praise, he loved all his children dearly till the end.

He is survived by his children; Nancy (Greg) Wanek, Gary (Debbie) Arneson, Janine (Bob) Gage, Rich (Diane) Arneson, Brian Arneson, Mary (Don) Kube, Jim (Diann Schmid) Arneson, Meg (Mike) McGrane, Vicky (Gavin) Grice, and Tom (Vickie) Arneson. Twenty-six grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren also survive him.

He was preceded in death by his wife Joan Irene Arneson; his parents; siblings, Lee Arneson and Kenneth Arneson; daughter, Jill O’keefe; and sister-in-law, Kathy Arneson.

After a private mass at 10:30 AM on Thursday, June 16 ^th followed by a private burial, there will be a Celebration of Life and luncheon for family and friends from 1-3 PM at Mary, Mother of the Church Parish Hall, La Crosse, WI.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Head Start Family Development Centers, Inc | La crosse, Headstartcouleeregion.com/donate, (608) 785-2070; Gunderson Health System Hospice, 1900 South Ave, La Crosse, WI 54601 (608) 782-7300.