Jack Clair Arends

Jack Arends was born on February 27, 1944, to John and Vera (Martens) Arends of Ellsworth, Minnesota. He was the oldest of five children, followed by Jean, Lee, Keith, and Lloyd. Jack grew up on a farm outside Ellsworth and attended country school. During his high school years at Adrian High School, he played basketball and the trumpet. After graduating, Jack attended South Dakota State University for two years, focusing on drafting and architecture. He later moved to Bennington, Nebraska, where he began working for a poured foundation business. He also enjoyed car racing in Omaha, driving his 1965 Mustang. In 1965, Jack met Janice Timmermier at a bowling alley. The couple married on May 28, 1967, and made their home in Elkhorn, Nebraska. Together, they welcomed four children: Cheryl, Michael, Mary, and Nicholas. During these busy years of raising a family, Jack was actively involved in the Jaycees at both the local and national levels. He also co-founded Arends Bros. Poured Concrete with his brother Lee and drew house plans for clients. His hard work, honesty, and strong work ethic contributed greatly to his success. Jack enjoyed reading, watching westerns and game shows, and playing cards. After the passing of his wife of 32 years, Jan, he reconnected with Carolyn Davis, a longtime friend from the Jaycees. They were married on August 3, 2001. Together, they enjoyed cheering on Husker football, watching their children and grandchildren participate in activities, traveling throughout Europe and the United States, and spending time with family and friends. Jack was preceded in death by his father, John Arends Jr.; his mother, Vera Martens Arends; his first wife, Janice Timmermier Arends; and his stepdaughter, Jenny Davis Walter. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Carolyn Parr Davis Arends; daughter Cheryl (Jim) Houser; son Michael (Lori) Arends; daughter Mary (Brian) Vance; and son Nicholas Arends; as well as his stepson-in-law, Tony Walter. He is also survived by his grandchildren Luke, Valerie, Zach (Olivia), Rachel (Spencer), Josh, Bailey, Alison, Joe, Anna, Brett, Garrett, Maddie, and Adam; and his great-grandchildren Becker, Everett, Evelyn, Zaylee, and Teddy. He is further survived by his sister, Jean (Clint) Allison; brothers Lee (Kathy) Arends, Keith (Terrilyn) Arends, and Lloyd (Linda) Arends; brother-in-law Greg (Amy) Parr; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Family requests Memorials to St. Jude Research Hospital or the American Red Cross

Jack Clair Arends

February 27, 1944 - January 13, 2026