Mary L. Arnholt

Mary Lea (Bettmann) Arnholt went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, October 6th, 2025. Mary was born on March 27, 1950 in Aberdeen, South Dakota to Theodore and Irene Bettmann. She married Keith Arnholt on December 3, 1977 in Columbus, IN.

Mary was the fifth of nine children, growing up on a dairy farm and attending a one room schoolhouse in South Dakota. Mary graduated from Concordia Teachers College in Seward, Nebraska. As a Lutheran elementary education teacher, she taught in Bensenville, IL and at St. Peter's Lutheran in Columbus, IN. She also loved to spend time farming alongside her husband Keith. She helped in so many ways: drove the combine and grain cart, made trips to get parts, took lunch to the field, loaded the planter, cooked special Friday lunches for the whole crew, and everything in between.

Mary loved the Lord and was faithful in prayer for her family. Being a wife, mom, and grandma were her biggest joys. She is survived by her husband Keith, and her children Kelly (Scott) Hoover, Brian (Jackie) Arnholt, Staci (Nathan) Schiefer all of Columbus, IN, and Becci (Brian) Duclos of Nolensville, TN; grandchildren Jack (Jillian) Hoover (baby great granddaughter due in February), Sam (Sophia) Hoover, Abbi, Drew, and Sydni Schiefer, Adam and Sarah Arnholt, and Carter and Caroline Duclos; and mother-in-law Berniece Arnholt.

Showing the love of Christ and caring for others were two of Mary's greatest gifts which she extended to so many: her children, grandchildren, students, nieces and nephews, siblings, family, and friends. She loved with her whole heart, whether it was through prayer, laughter, tears, or food. She was the one down on the floor playing games, doing puzzles, making playdough, baking cookies, reading books, and playing dress up. Mary loved on her grandchildren through Friday morning breakfast, adventures in the pasture, shopping on their birthdays, and attending their activities. Lutheran Lake was one of her happy places where she enjoyed spending time with all the people she loved.

Mary was an active member at St. Peter's Lutheran church, participating on various boards and committees. She enjoyed her card club of many years, playing euchre and enjoying friendship. She was also a member and treasurer of the Kids & Kettles Extension Homemakers club.

She was preceded in death by her parents; father-in-law Kenneth Arnholt; siblings Marla Jean, Marilyn, Myra, Roger, and Marge. Survived by siblings David (Robin), Kevin (Janae), and Gary.

The memorial service will be held at St. Peter's Lutheran Church on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025 at 10:30am with the Reverends John Cordrey and Mark Teike officiating. In keeping with the family's wishes, cremation will take place. There will be no calling hours.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Peter's Lutheran School.

Arrangements by Barkes, Weaver & Glick Funeral Home.

Condolences and special memories may be shared with the Arnholt family and a video tribute may be viewed at barkesweaverglick.com