Arnie Walde

Arnie William Walde was born on January 8, 1959, in Denison, Iowa, to Virgil Alan and Viola Marie (Meeves) Walde. He was raised on the Walde family farm in East Boyer Township, where his lifelong connection to the land and hard work began. From a young age, around five years old, Arnie worked alongside his father on the farm, sparking a deep love for farming and for Iowa itself.

He was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison and graduated from Denison High School with the Class of 1977.

After high school, Arnie continued farming with his father before leasing land and pursuing farming on his own. Although the timing proved difficult for starting his own operation, his passion for working with his hands only grew. During his high school years, Arnie apprenticed with Schultz Construction, where he gained valuable experience in home construction, laying the groundwork for his career in carpentry and construction.

For more than 40 years, Arnie worked various construction jobs in the Denison area and eventually ran his own carpentry and construction business. His employment over the years included roles as a farmer, carpenter, general laborer, woodworker, and a position with the U.S. Forest Service.

In his later years, Arnie channeled his craftsmanship into creating smaller woodworking projects. From birdhouses and dog houses to trellises and small cabinets, his creativity, humor, and resourcefulness shone through in every piece he built.

Beyond his work, Arnie had many interests. He enjoyed hunting, hiking, biking, photography, and gardening. He loved driving and walking around Denison, often capturing the charm of small-town Iowa through his lens. Arnie was also known for keeping up with current events and was especially engaged in politics and local Iowa farming issues.

Arnie passed away on May 16, 2025, in Denison, Iowa at the age of 66 years, four months and eight days. He was preceded in death by parents; and brother, Barry Walde.

He is survived by his son, Shane Walde, Omaha, Nebraska; sister, Kellie (Walde) and Kent Clow, Charlotte, North Carolina; nieces: Kristin (Clow) and Brett Albers, Clover, SC; great-nieces: Bernadette and Amelia Albers, Kaitlin Clow and Adam Fergusson; and many other family members and friends.

Arnie will rest in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery near Denison, Iowa.