Donald Clifford Arneson, long–time resident of Prior Lake passed away suddenly on April 18, 2020 at the age of 87. Don was born on June 11, 1932 in Benson MN to Clifford and Lucille Arneson. He had Master degrees in Spanish and English. Don started teaching in Forest Lake and moved into other educational fields and sales. He was in a partnership of a travel agency in Burnsville for 7 years.
Don had a great love of books and reading. He has written and published multiple plays and books. He was voted best director for innumerable family plays. He had an unstoppable love for his family. He enjoyed walking, happy hour at the lake and many, many travels.
Don, along with his wife Joyce, were involved in Peace Reformed Church in Eagan for many years. They served as board members in the Prior Lake Players. They also served in the Peace Corps in 1989 in Jamaica.
Don is survived by his wife Joyce Arneson of 42 years. His children Jan Schulze (Scott); Jodi Stachel (Tom); Julie Mullenberg; Jill Philippi (Eric); Jeff Stemmerman (Jackie); Jodi Ellingson (Greg). Grandchildren: Sarah Schroeder (David), Melissa Fink (Jim), Matthew, Hannah, Jake, Grace & Brooke Stachel; Alex, Zac & Mariah Mullenberg; Sean, Alicia (Dan) & Katlyn Philippi; Samm, Spencer & Tori Ellingson. Great grandchildren; Sawyer, Winnie & Charlie Schroeder; Nora Fink.
Don was an only child with 7 half siblings, 4 of whom are still living.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 24, at 10:00 am, at Peace Reform Church, 2180 Glory Drive, Eagan, MN. Masks are required and social distancing will be maintain. Condolences can be left at www.ballardsunderfuneral.com and cards mailed to Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 104 West First Street, Jordan, MN 55352. Live streaming of the service can be viewed by visiting the following link: https://www.peace-eagan.org/
Ballard-Sunder Funeral and Cremation proudly served the Arneson family.
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Ann & Charlie Barcus
Dear Joyce & all ur sweet family—We r thinking of & praying for u daily as u walk thru this sad time since Don’s passing—he was a true gentleman & will be missed by many—stay in touch & ur many StL friends will want to see u when u find a time to return for a visit—love & hugs, Ann & Charlie BARCUS
Judi Haugh
So sad to hear this news. My prayers & thoughts go out to Joyce & the family.
Don was such a nice man!!
Ramona Dalen Olsen
Don was a member of our class…Benson High School…the class of 1950…I knew him as a classmate, friend, and a member of Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church. I am sure he will be greatly missed by his wife, family and friends. Blessed be his memory.