Walter R. Arndt

Walter Robert Arndt, 75, of Lena, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. He was born on May 7, 1949, in Oconto Falls to the late Robert and Pearl (Robinson) Arndt. Walter graduated from Lena High School in 1967. In September 1969, he enlisted in the Marine Corps. with his brother Mike. They completed basic training at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego. In December 1969, Walter was transferred to Camp Pendleton for infantry training. In January 1970, he completed advanced infantry training and was assigned to a company in the 1st Marine Division. He then took a float to Hawaii, a float to the Philippines for training and lastly, a float to Okinawa. While there, he volunteered to go to Vietnam. With the 1st Marine Division, he was stationed just outside of Da Nang in April of 1970. While in Vietnam, he was with the 1st Battalion 5th Marines and spent a lot of time in the field. Walter was honorably discharged in September 1971. He was a true patriot who loved and served his country wholeheartedly. Walter always took pride in flying his American flag in his yard for all to see. He was proud of his country and proud of his service to his beloved country. On Oct. 2, 1971, Walter married Priscilla Bitters in Lena. Together, they had two beautiful children, Debbie and Brian. Walter farmed with his family for many years; then, in 1976, he went into farming business with his brothers creating Arndt Inc. He enjoyed farming his entire life and was a true farm boy at heart. Walter enjoyed sports and watching the Packers, Badgers, Brewers and Bucks. He loved the outdoors and being outside. Walter always had sweet treats for his nieces and nephews. They especially loved dropping in on Halloween for the full-size candy bars. He always had coffee on and an open door to visitors. He was a kind and caring man who always lended out a helping hand and he had a great sense of humor. What Walter loved the most however was his family. Walter is survived by his children, Debbie (Leon) Kanugh, Brian (Amanda) Arndt; two very loved grandsons, Tanner and Mason Arndt; siblings, Pat (Bill) Kinziger, Mike (Peggy) Arndt, Dave Arndt, Bill (Robin) Arndt. He is further survived by 14 nieces and nephews, 18 great-nieces and -nephews, two great-great-nieces and many close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister in law, Mary Arndt. Family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at Rhodes-Charapata Funeral Home, 438 W. Main St. Lena, WI. 54139. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a memorial service to follow beginning at 1 p.m. with Father Ben Johnson officiating. Military honors will be held. Family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Rennes East, Unity Hospice, Wally’s nieces, Sara Hahn and Meadow Hahn, and his VA caregiver, Billie, for all the care and wonderful compassion. Rhodes-Charapata Funeral Home of Lena is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rhodescharapata.com.