Arneth M. Gertsen
I called on Arnie while I was working for Farmland Industries as a petroleum representative. Arnie was well thought of by the people in Farmland as well as myself. My condolences to the family.
Terry Wear
Ely
IA
Kevin and Steven, My father, Robert Williams, Yakinville, NC served in the Marines with your father. I have had the honor of taking him to several of their reunions and have laughed with your father many times! My dad was moved to tears when he heard of "Gert's" death and told me later he remembers Gert "popping him on the butt" with a towel every time he would pass by his tent to get to the shower while stationed in Pavuvuv, Okinawa. He was quite a prankster I understand. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you in your loss. The Williams family
Pat Bunge
Greensboro
NC
Arnie was in the Marines with my husband Harold Trout during WW II. They were in combat together in the South Pacific, and went to China at the end of the War. They had many adventures together, and maintained their friendship until Harold died in November, 2007. Arnie was a delight to be around. He was always joking and having fun. However, when it was time to get serious, he did that too. Arnie would often surprise us by stopping in to visit whenever he was on a trip that put him somewhere within our neighborhood. He always remembered our birthdays by calling us and sending cards. I will greatly miss Arnie, and always have a big place for him in my lifetime of memories.
Letha Trout
Lafayette
IN
Our condolences to the Arnie Gertsen family. I called on Arnie when he was the manager of the coop in Shenandoah, Iowa. He was such a true gentleman and always cared about people. The employees loved him and the customers respected him. Arnie always had a great relationship with most people. We have lost a friend.
John & Marilyn Sandquist
Urbandale
IA
Sorry we missed your dad's visitation, missed it in the paper. Dad, Philip Hand, passed away on Easter. Mom, Berniece, sends her condolences as the folks always enjoyed Arnie's humor and friendship. I, Phyllis Jones, enjoyed visiting with Arnie in Target. May you find comfort in your fond memories of your dad that never fade away.
Berniece Hand and Family
Center Point
IA
I am sorry for your loss. I knew him from his days at the Coop and he always had a grin and a hello for me. My thoughts are with you Pat
Pat Quinn
Marion
IA
Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Cheryl Brown
garwin
IA
Dear Gertsen Family, I grew up in Story City and lived next door to Arneth's parents, Cora and Hans, until 1969 when I moved to Colorado. My sister and I called them "Grandma and Grandpa Gertsen." My dad still lives in the same house, and every time I go back I have such fond memories of Cora and Hans. When I opened up the Story City Herald today, Arneth's picture reminded me so much of them--I am sure he was as wonderful a man as his parents were. I am sorry for your loss. Jean Mussehl Siddle
Jean Siddle
Estes Park
CO
Grandpa. It's been over 2 years now since you've been gone, and it seems like only yesterday I was riding my bike down to your house and we were going to the Ice Cream Parlor. You were the #1 person in my life, now you're the #1 person in my heart. You were my constant reminder of reality, my guide through the impossible, the reason I am so strong today. When I think I've had enough, I just think about you and toughen up. I continue to smile and stay strong because I know you're shining down on me from Heaven. I don't know if I'm where you expected me to be in life and I really hope you're not disappointed in me. I won't take anything for granted anymore and I'll do everything to keep making you proud. I just want you to see how hard I'm trying. I graduate in less than a month and soon enough a new chapter will be beginning in my life, but this time, without you. I can now look up and smile, because each passing day reminds me that it's one day closer to the time where I'll see you again. I know you're watching and doing all you can to keep me safe. I love you, my beautiful angel.