LaVerne (Chuck) Charles Arns, born May 7,1949, passed peacefully into the presence of his Savior on January 25, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and service. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Chuck lived a life grounded in Christian faith and guided by humility, kindness, and steadfast devotion to family.

Chuck was deeply devoted to his wife, Rita, the love of his life and high school sweetheart. They were married on June 27,1970, beginning a partnership built on faith, commitment, and enduring love. Together, they moved to the Brainerd Lakes Area, where they put down roots, built a home, and raised their family. Their marriage was a beautiful testament to loyalty, shared values, and a lifetime of growing together.

As a father, he led with both gentleness and conviction. He taught his children the value of hard work, integrity, kindness, and trust in the Lord- not only through his words, but through the example of how he lived each day. His presence was a source of comfort, wisdom, and quiet encouragement, and his love will remain a guiding force in their lives.

Chuck dedicated many years of his life to education, believing deeply in the power of learning and the importance of shaping young lives. He served his students and colleagues with patience, wisdom, and compassion, viewing his work not simply as a career, but as a calling. His impact reached far beyond the classroom, influencing generations through encouragement, integrity, and a genuine desire to help others succeed.

Chuck's faith was the cornerstone of his life. He trusted God in all seasons, finding peace in prayer and strength in God's promises. Those who knew him will remember his gentle spirit, quiet strength, and servant's heart.

While he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing he is now at peace, reunited with the Lord he faithfully served. Chuck's legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he so freely gave.

He is survived by his wife, Rita; his children, Tatum (Steve), Tasha (Matt), Stephanie (Jeffrey), Jeffrey (Laura), Jessica, Megan (Bill); his grandchildren, Tyler (Grace), Sydni, Trey, Braeden, Hailey (Keaton), Devin, Ryan, Jake, Grady, Olivia, Keyston, William, Elijah, Blade, Mikayla, Abigail, Iris, Kace, Jack, Bostyn, Brian, Conner; and great-grandchild, Kaden.

He is preceded in death by his parents, LaVerne and Lois Arns; and his grandson, Bode Patnode.

A Celebration of Chuck's Life will be held at 11am on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Lakewood Evangelical Free Church in Baxter. Family and friends are invited to gather at 10am for a visitation, and to stay for a luncheon immediately following the service.

"For I am convinced that neither life…nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38-39