Arnie P. Van Hoosen

Arnie Van Hoosen, age 89, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 20th, at home surrounded by loved ones.

Arnie was born on January 11, 1936, to George and Ann (Firlus) Van Hoosen in Mauston, Wisconsin. The family later moved to Fort Atkinson, where Arnie attended and graduated from high school. It was there that he met the love of his life, Janice Tutton. The two were married at the Methodist Church in Fort Atkinson on May 25, 1957, and shared 67 wonderful years together.

Arnie’s lifelong commitment to service began early. He joined the National Guard while still in high school and, in June of 1960, was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant, becoming a platoon leader in his company. He attended Officer Training School at Fort Benning, Georgia, in 1961 and was transferred to Fort Lewis, Washington, during the Berlin Crisis later that year. Arnie was promoted to First Lieutenant in 1963 and, in 1966, became Executive Officer of two platoons. He was promoted to Captain in 1967 and transferred to Battalion Headquarters in Elkhorn. In March of 1972, he was named Company Commander in Elkhorn, a position he held until December of that year.

During his 20 years of dedicated service, Arnie received numerous honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, the Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, and multiple state awards.

Following his military career, Arnie spent much of his life working in various sales roles and later retired as Lead Custodian at Hartland Arrowhead. Outside of work, he embraced life with joy and enthusiasm. He played softball, bowled in multiple leagues, and was an active member of two card clubs one of them for more than 50 years. Through the “card kitties” they donated each month, the group traveled together, exploring countries around the world.

Music was the thread that ran through Arnie’s entire life. From high school choir to church choir to two city barbershop choirs, Arnie was always singing. One of his greatest joys was calling friends and family to sing “Happy Birthday” to them every year, a tradition that will be fondly remembered by many.

Arnie’s church family meant the world to him. He was a devoted member of Christ United Methodist Church in Watertown for 46 years, where he served on many committees and formed cherished relationships. He was an inspiration to countless people, a source of warmth and humor, and a joy to be around. He will be deeply missed.

Arnie is survived by his children, James (Cheryl) Van Hoosen, Jay Van Hoosen, and Jill Stevens; his grandchildren Tony, Bradley, Cameron, Thomas, Heather (Jake), Adam, and Nathan; his six great-grandchildren; and seven very special nieces and nephews. He is also survived by a small number of relatives and a host of dear friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Donald and Ronald; and his beloved wife, Jan.

If desired, memorials in Arnie’s name may be made to Rainbow Community Care.

A Funeral Service will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Christ United Methodist Church of Watertown with Rev. Dr. Young Tae Lee and Rev. Dr. A Hyun Lee presiding. Visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Arnie will be laid to rest at Oak Hill Cemetery following the service.