Edward John Arness

EDWARD JOHN ARNESS (AKA Flyboy) (4/21/42-1/18/22) made his final flight, totally free and unhindered by the numerous health issues the past two-plus years (not COVID-related). He loved the Lord and is rejoicing in His presence now. He fought a valiant fight and is no longer torn between the two realities. Those of you who knew Ed know how difficult it is to summarize his amazing life in a few paragraphs. Edward was born in Glenwood, MN, to Palmer & Myrtle Arness. He attended grades 1-8 at a country school. He didn't speak English when he started First Grade, but his teacher spoke Norwegian (whew!). He graduated from the Brooten, MN, High School and from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN in 1964. College advisors put nearly everyone in teaching positions at that time. He tried it for two years and that was enough of that. From that point, he became Sales Manager for Minneapolis-St. Paul Hertz Rent-a-Car. That's where he met the actor, James Arness's father...instant buddies! His love for the Lord and his faith and love for family, friends, and flying propelled him to be the caliber of man he became. He was involved in a variety of sales, ministry, evangelism, deferred-giving, photography, oil painting, and in retirement, driving a school bus. Many of the professions involved flying which he enjoyed so much. He loved the Lord and he loved people and was the one to call if you needed prayer. He had a zeal for life and adventure. Edward earned his Pilot's License on November 19, 1967, so on the 50th anniversary of that, his wife and sons went along on a 50-year-commemorative flight. He flew a large variety of aircraft for various companies, ministries, and individuals and in diverse situations. He always said God is the Pilot and I'm His Co-Pilot. Edward received the Wright Brothers' Master Pilot Award in 2018 for 50 years of safe flying. That was a huge accomplishment and meant so much to him. He had such a love for aviation and was pleased to publish his book a year ago. It is called My 50 Years of Flying Adventures. Edward was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving & faithful wife Fern of nearly 59 years, two sons: Chris & Nick; brother: David (Darlene); Grandsons: Brandon & Zachary; former daughter-in-law: DeeDee, one step granddaughter, two great grandsons and two great granddaughters as well as numerous relatives and friends.

Edward John Arness

April 21, 1942 - January 18, 2022