Theodorus Arends

ARENDS - Theodorus "Tom", 56, of Decatur St., in the Indian Orchard section of Springfield, died Thursday, September 9, 2004, at his home. Born in the seaside resort of Scheveningen, Netherlands March 25, 1948, son of Theodorea (Conneman) and the late Jacobus "Jim" Arends, who died in 1997. He spent his youth in the Netherlands and in South Africa. After his high school education, he joined the Dutch Marine Corp., where he proudly served for 6 years, advancing to Sergeant. His service time enabled him to travel the world which he loved. Tom had a strong sense of adventure, as a youth he saved a boy close to drowning in the North Sea. This act earned him a place in Carnegie Book of Heroes. Tom's adventures brought him to the United States in 1972 and he lived on Cape Cod for 22 years before moving to Milford, MA and then on to Springfield. Tom also worked as a graphic artist for Turley Publication in Palmer with many years of service. He was an accomplished carpenter and wood worker. Tom his survived by his wife Paula (Mastropieri) Arends whom he married on June 3, 1995. Three children; Thomas Edward James "TJ" Arends of Indian Orchard, Laura McInnis of Cape Cod, and Daniel John Arends at home. His mother Theodora "DO" (Cinneman) Arends and a sister, Erna Page of South Africa. His nephews and niece David Page, Debbie Page-Atwell Jenna Chiavelli and Scott Chiavelli. Tom will be greatly missed by his loving and caring family. Many of Tom's best hours were spent with is family and close friends. Funeral Monday, at 9 A.M. from the Kapinos-Mazur Funeral Home, 64 Sewall St. Ludlow, MA, followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial in St. Cecilia's Church, Main St., Wilbraham at 10 A.M. Burial will be private. Friends may call Sunday, 5-6 P.M. For further directions, information, and online guest book, please visit www.KapinosMazurFH.com