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John Arrigo Obituary
He was born on November 2, 1954 in Lincoln, NE.
John graduated from the University of Nebraska with a degree in Geology. He received his Master's degree in Hydrogeology at the University of Idaho. He started his career as the first groundwater hydrologist for the DEQ for the state of Montana. He retired as the enforcement division administrator for the DEQ in 2018, when his sons were 12. Then started John's second career as a stay at home parent who attended all the boys' sporting events, parent teacher conferences and was the family cook. He was also a gifted handyman and no job was out of reach of his talent. John's love for his wife and sons was something he lived and celebrated every day.
John's vibrant personality was larger than life. He was the leader of many adventures and was always eager to bring people along as he snow skied, waterskied, played pickleball, floated the Missouri, and made pottery, among many other hobbies. John was the ultimate dreamer. A day trip to a hot springs or a great restaurant hours away was not out of the realm of experiences John treated others to. He was a delightful human that people sought out to spend time with.
John will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He touched everyone he met.
John is survived by his wife, Rachel and twin sons Talus Arrigo and Rowen Arrigo, all of Clancy.
Other survivors include sisters Kathy Merritt of Florida, Patty Valinch of Washington, Marilyn (Charles) Schmidt of Lincoln, NE, Christine Scheer of Lincoln, NE, and Vicki (Mike) Valaika of Lincoln, NE, brothers Joe (Jeanine) of Colorado and Ron of Colorado, mother in law Kathy Clark (Lee Sterner) of Alaska, sisters-in-law Stephanie Itzen (Wade) of Iowa and Angela Sulzer (Stephen) of Washington. Other survivors are many nieces and nephews who simply adored John.
He is predeceased by his mother Victoria and his father Santo along with his brothers-in-law Jerry Merritt and John Valinch.
A private service is planned for next summer.
John desired memorials in his name to be sent to the Prickly Pair Land Trust.
Memories and Condolences
for John Arrigo
Sponsored by Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home & Crematory - Helena.
Vicki Woodrow
December 13, 2025
Prayers for you and the boys - john will be missed - you all we're the light in his eyes.
Sherry
December 8, 2025
I knew John in high school and from UNL. Also, when he worked at Hinky Dinky at the Gateway mall in high school. Always wondered where his life took him. Prayers to his wife and sons.
J.
November 15, 2025
May God's promise found in John 6:40, of the hope to see our loved ones again, comfort your heart and give you peace, strength, and hope in the days ahead.May God's promise found in John 6:40, of the hope to see our loved ones again, comfort you.
JOHN EDWARD DEATHERAGE
November 14, 2025
Sorry for the passing of John. Dennis and I (John) Deatherage have many fond memories of our rants in Lincoln Nebraska. Rest in peace John, as we all will.
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Diana Zimmerman
November 14, 2025
I remember walking with John and other from DEQ. John was friendly and warm and interested in everyone. He made a great impression on me and others. My heart goes out to Rachel and their sons.
Cinda Stewart
November 7, 2025
John was a class mate of the graduation class of 1972 Lincoln High. He loved life.
Mary beth linder
November 6, 2025
John was absolutely the best neighbor anyone could have on holter street. He helped our family be the "fun uncle" in raising our 3 sons. Much laughter, roly-poly activities in our backyards. A great man.
Jim Nolan
November 6, 2025
He was a very nice man. Played golf with him a few times. Always very much fun to be around. My prayers to his family
Sue Philipps
November 6, 2025
Patty, I think you and I met many years ago. My husband was Jim Philipps and best friends with Bill. Jim passed a year ago and I know that you lost John too. I'm so sorry to see you have now lost your brother. Wishing you blessings and peace on yet another grief journey for you. May he rest in peace.
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