Rocky Arndt, age 68, passed away on April 7, 2026.
Rocky Arndt, aged 68, passed on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. He spent his final days as he spent his life - deeply loved.
Rocky was born June 22, 1957, in Wisconsin, the first of five children. In his youth, he was a prankster and daredevil, keeping everyone on their toes. He grew to be a stoic man on the surface, private and reserved; but beneath that was a man of wit, humor, and - most of all - a warm and generous heart.
In his early years, he had the opportunity to travel abroad thanks to his time in the US Army, including most notably, his time stationed in Germany. He cherished that time due to his own German heritage, and gladly recounted stories and experiences from his time there at family gatherings.
Rocky was a man of many interests and talents, with a quick and curious mind. If there was something he was keen to learn, he was relentless in the pursuit of that knowledge, and he loved to share it. His passions were numerous and varied, from riding his gorgeous blue Harley Davidson motorcycle and playing golf with his brother, to collecting and carefully preserving NASCAR model cars, to making the spiciest chili and the best Kringle (but only at Christmas time). His greatest passion in recent years was his orchard where he spent time lovingly cultivating many fruit trees and then crafting delicious jams and jellies from the fruit he grew - a passion he carried on from his mother.
Woodworking came naturally to Rocky. He showed a love for craftsmanship at an early age and brought that passion forward into a career: Rocky was the proud owner and operator of Rocky's Custom Carpentry. Through this business, he built beautiful homes all over the Ozark area with care and incredible craftsmanship. In addition to his work, he leaves behind a legacy of masterpieces he has gifted to family and friends over the years.
Rocky's generous spirit was unmatched. He found joy in giving gifts - most memorably hand-crafted items like candles, jams, and Rocky’s Famous Best Ever Hot Cocoa Mix, and a stuffed animal for every child at every Christmas (usually the most gigantic ones he could find). Beyond tangible items, he gave the gift of experiences. He is known for incredible fireworks shows, beautiful holiday displays, and evenings spent laughing squishy-footed around a bonfire or on a pontoon.
Rocky was lovingly known as Dad, Grandpa, son, brother, and Uncle Boo. He is survived by his life partner, Tammie Ritz; his children, Chastity (Arndt) & Daniel Beaver, and Chirsty Arndt & David Lhotka; his parents Betty & James Arndt; his grandchildren, Daniel Jr and Kylie Beaver; his siblings, Julie (Arndt) & Rick Risberg, Greg Arndt, Lisa (Arndt) & Daryl Wilken, Lola (Arndt) & Edward Jaeger; his beloved cats, Monkey and George (who will miss him greatly on their morning walks); and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. A person full of life and love, he will be missed dearly by those who knew him.
Arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation located in Lead Hill, Arkansas.
Condolences may be left at www.DiamondStateCremation.com

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