David Lynn Arneson fell asleep in death on March 17, 2017. Up to his death and in his final weeks, Dave was surrounded by his loving family and friends. Dave faithfully devoted his life, first and foremost, as a baptized minister in the Christian congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Dave’s final hours were spent focused on his belief of the resurrection hope and giving a witness of his faith to those who so lovingly cared for him. Dave’s faith gave him the strength to continue to put others first, even as he failed in health.
He was born to Raymond and Evelyn Arneson on October 14, 1942 in Glasgow, Montana. He married Friede on May 5, 1962 in Billings, Montana. He was a graduate of Glasgow High. He worked for Buttrey Foods, in the meat department. After moving to Helena in 1965 he continued working for Buttrey Foods as well as for Safeway. He later changed his occupation to allow more time for his Christian responsibilities. He worked in the field of construction for Sharbono, and Alan Nicholson, and later as a partner of Professional Ceilings. He later formed his own operated business known as AAA Contractors with his son Paul and his daughter Debbie.
In 1999 he purchased and renovated the old Cooney Hospital property that is now occupied by Mountain Pacific Quality Health, and La Casa Fiesta Mexican Restaurant. His hobbies were trucks and cars. He enjoyed a 2 week reprieve from the cold Montana winters in Hawaii each year, with family and friends.
Dave will be remembered by many as a loving, caring, humble, and devoted husband, father, friend and member of the community. He is survived by his wife, Friede, daughter, Debbie, son, Paul, along with four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Donations on behalf of Dave can be made to the Jehovah Witnesses at JW.org or the following https://apps.jw.org/E donate. Please visit below to off the family a condolence or to share a memory of Dave.
Mary Lou Nelson says
I have known Dave since he was a young lad and I a young mother. We were only 5 yrs apart. He was so loving and friendly and loved his family. I especially remember walking at the Yellowstone Metra Grounds during a lunch time and we were both escorting young grandchildren We looked at each other claiming in unison ” these should be our children, not our grandchildren”. How short life is, how grateful for the sure hope ahead.
Peter & Chris Martin says
Dear Friede and Paul and Debbie, Peter and I have felt deeply the loss that you must be experiencing. Dave is so ingrained in our memories for his constant affection, big hugs, willing and self-sacrificing spirit and steadfast devotion to Jehovah. To us, he was a “big man” in every sense of the word. He made us feel his affection and interest personally each time we talked to him. It seemed he was a “constant” in our lives, secure and that would never be taken away as we all endured to the end of this system of things. We will miss him so much even though we know he has won the battle and is assured of life again in an instant of time. We hope to see him then. We hope to follow his example of endearing qualities in our lives as a tribute to his memory. We send you our love and deepest sympathy and please know you will be in our prayers. With love, Peter and Chris Martin
Gabrielle Delaney says
Dave took on the renovation of the old Cooney Convalescent Hospital almost 20 years ago–a building which had long been vacant and my employer, Mountain-Pacific, has been a tenant ever since. Dave came to know us and we him as he frequented our building over the years making repairs and improvements. He was a very positive part of my work experience with his gentle, kind demeanor. Although I did not know him outside of the office, he definitely made an impact here at work and he will be deeply missed. My condolences go out to his wife and family.
Michael Molzhon says
Know how much David and his family has meant to our family. Speaking as Michael’s wife, I would not have Michael if not for the Arneson family. FIrst, thanks to David for his superlative example in serving Jehovah first, extending that to his children and grandchildren. What examples you have all shown us. Can you imagine our reunion with that wonderful family? Freide, I will try to help you with the meal, but know that that is not my greatest asset, cooking. We all love you so much and feel your temporary emptiness. Soon we all will be full to the brim. MIchael and Linda Molzhon
Sandi Abern Nelson says
We haven’t seen each other often over the years, but this makes me think of us all in Helena back in the ’60s. Seems like yesterday, and it will seem like that when we see David & Bob in the resurrection. Then our tears will be tears of joy & there will be lots of laughing again. Know my thoughts & prayers are with you & your family. We are so blessed to know Jehovah & have him love us so much that he gives us so much hope for the future & comfort now.
Debbie Bennett says
I did not know Dave but he is my brother. I do know his cousin Sandy. She is a delight. I look forward to meeting Dave soon when he awakes. Right now he is in Jehovah’s memory and Satan cannot reach him. What safer place could he be? A brother said once, if we think of life and death as punctuation marks, death is a comma not a period. He is only slowed down not ended.
Sandy Wirfs says
David is my cousin from the Stenseth side of the family. He and I were making hamburger patties at a convention of Jehovah’s witnesses over 60 years ago. I told my mom about David Arneson and she said he was my cousin. We were so happy to know that there were witnesses on that side of the family. Thought I should check on my cousin, but missed getting in touch. We are truly busy people in the ministry. From Oregon, to Nebraska, Venezuela , South Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Kentucky ,Indiana ,and now, North Louisiana; I finally am home and thought I should let my relatives know they have witness relatives. I would love to hear from them at sandywirfs@yahoo.com.
David didn’t know that we are cousins. I can’t wait to tell him in paradise. It truly warms my heart to know what a truly wonderful spiritual brother he is. Jehovah tells us that the righteous are as good as alive. His past course still speaks for him. What an amazing legacy he has passed down to his beloved wife ,children , and grandchildren. In paradise he will be a big help greeting back the rest of the family. Love,Sandy