Arden R. Stead

Arden R. Stead, age 95, passed away peacefully at Oak Park Place on Sunday, December 16, 2018. He was born on his family’s farm in Omro on November 22, 1923, son of the late Claud and Elsie (Totz) Stead. He enlisted in the US Army and served in WWII, also fought in the Battle of the Bulge. After his honorable discharge, Arden returned home where he married Eleanor Vander Linden on November 18, 1944 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Appleton. He worked at Jahnke Auto Parts for over 30 years until his retirement. Arden enjoyed wintering in Texas with his wife, Eleanor. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and taking trips to Canada with his friends. Arden was a volunteer firefighter for the Town of Menasha and also the past director of the Twin City Rod and Gun club. He was a loyal member of his Wednesday night bowling team and never missed a night for decades.

He is survived by his children, Barbara (Jack) Allen and Melissa (Bob) Lake; grandchildren: Chris, Wendy (significant other, Eric) Allen, Jason (Kayla) Allen, Jesse (Amber) Michalkiewicz, Steph (Mark) DeRuyter, Travis Rhodes, Heather; great-grandchildren: Ernesto and Derick Allen, Jennifer (Levi) Schafer, Eli, Eugene, Eron and Oliver Allen, Hanna and Cade Michalkiewicz, Cody Rhodes-Concepcion, Breanna DeRuyter, Wyatt Rademaker; great great-grandchildren: Chon Allen, Phoenix and Hendrix Schafer, Lekeza Rhodes-Concepcion; step-grandchildren: Christian and Emma Pitsch. He is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Eleanor Stead; siblings: Marlene, Elaine, Doris, Janis, Mike and Lloyd.

The funeral service for Arden will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 29, 2018 at Wichmann Funeral Home (537 N. Superior St., Appleton) with Deacon Rick Simon officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff at Oak Park Place and Ascension Visiting Nurses and Hospice for the care and compassion given to Arden.