Elmer J Arends

1938 - 2025

Elmer J. Arends, age 89, of Nashua died Saturday, September 27, 2025, at MercyOne Medical Center in Mason City.

Funeral services were held Friday, October 3, at St. John Lutheran Church in Nashua with Pastor Todd Burrichter officiating. Inurnment was held at Sunnyside Memory Gardens in Charles City Saturday, October 4. Gary Arends Jr., Michael Arends, Dougie King, Danny Pickett, John Russel, and Keith Arends served as pallbearers.

Friends greeted the family Friday, October 3 prior to the service at St. John Lutheran Church in Nashua. A lunch was served following the service at the church.

Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory – Olson Chapel in Nashua was entrusted with arrangements.

Born on April 18, 1936, in Shell Rock, Iowa, to Jans and Etta (Deraad) Arends, Elmer's life was one of dedication, hard work, and joyous adventure, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience.

Elmer's journey began in the heartland, where he was raised with a strong work ethic, working on many farms during his youth. His commitment to his country was evident when he left his hometown to serve in the Army, a time that would shape the rest of his life. Upon his return, Elmer's life blossomed when he married his sweetheart, Elisabeth Hangartner. They met through Elisabeth's sister and exchanged vows at St. Johns Lutheran Church in Charles City in 1957, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership filled with mutual respect and affection.

Education was important to Elmer, and he earned his GED after his military service, demonstrating his belief in the power of perseverance and continuous learning. He translated this belief into his professional life, embarking on a successful career at Bantam, where he started at an entry-level position. Through his dedication and leadership skills, Elmer worked his way up to become a top supervisor and plant manager, a role he held for around 35 years. His colleagues at Bantam remember him as a fair and inspiring leader who always had time for mentorship and advice.

Elmer's interests were as varied as they were passionate. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing, often sharing stories of the one that got away. Camping trips were a regular occurrence, with Elmer and Elisabeth traveling west in their RV, exploring the vast landscapes and starlit skies. He was also an enthusiastic dancer, finding joy in the rhythm and companionship on the dance floor.

His love for the water was evident in the many boating excursions he enjoyed on multiple lakes, and his competitive spirit shone through in his bowling league and snowmobile trips to Wisconsin. Elmer's zest for life was infectious, and he never missed an opportunity to gather friends and family for a new adventure or a cherished tradition.

Elmer is survived by his wife Elisabeth Arends of Nashua; sons Michael Arends of Scottsdale, Arizona, and Gary Arends Jr. (Luke and Matthew) of Clovis, California; sister Mary Jane Pickett of Marble Rock; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jans and Etta (Deraad) Arends; brothers: Gary, John, Donny, and Roger Arends; and sisters: Elizabeth Tegtmeier, Edna King, and Ester.