Michael R. “Mike-Arty” Arends passed away on August 09, 2015 after a brief battle with cancer with loving family around him.
Mike, as he became known, was born to Roy and Vera (Bradsby) Arends on June 9, 1950 in Mullen.
Mike attended school in Mullen, graduating in 1968. He attended college at Kearney State obtaining a B.A. degree in Business Administration and Economics, graduating in 1980. He joined the Air Force in February 1969 and served as a Staff Sargent helping organize the supply division in Viet Nam. He was honorably discharged in February 1973.
After working various jobs and attending college in Kearney, he met and married Deanna J. (Sear) Palmer on August 8, 1981. Joining them was son Wade and daughter Wendy. They moved back to Mullen in February 1982. Mike worked day jobs and construction until January 1984 when he started as a Support Services Supervisor at Pioneer Memorial Rest Home working until July 2015. Mike was also employed at the Mullen Funeral Home for 28 years.
Mike volunteered on the Ambulance as a sub-driver and EMT for 20 years. He also volunteered as a Fireman and was Vice Commander of the American Legion #109 and VFW #5541.
“Arty” loved his family and all sports especially Nebraska Football, golf, reading, crosswords and man’s best friend, his dogs; he and Dee rescued many.
Preceding him in death are his parents, sister Pat Arends and niece Cori (Arends) Schutz.
Leaving to survive are his wife Dee, Wade (Molly) Palmer, Wendy Palmer (and special friend Matt), brother Ed (Deb) Arends, Mona (Jim) Brannan, Roiann (Rick) Hays, grandchildren Dylan, Wade Jr., Abby and numerous nieces and nephews.
Mike always had a positive attitude for anyone; he knew and felt there was some good in everyone.
In lieu of flowers, Mike requested Memorials to Pioneer Memorial Rest Home, Cedarview Cemetery or donor’s choice. Mike requested casual wear for the funeral. Please wear Red or White Husker Gear.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 13, 2015 at 2 PM MDT at the Methodist Church in Mullen. Burial with Military Honors will be held at the Cedarview Cemetery in Mullen.
A Celebration of “Arty’s” Life will be held from 4-6 PM MDT at Red’s Café in Mullen following the services. “You can’t spell Party without “Arty”.
Visitation will be held from 1-7 PM MDT Wednesday at the Mullen Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.