Arlen Armstrong

Arlen Aaron Armstrong's story began on February 6, 1943, in Kansas City, Missouri, where he was born to Homer and Eunice (Bate) Armstrong. From an early age, he loved farm life. As a young boy, he helped with the chores and loved the cattle and making hay.

Arlen grew up in Ravenwood, Missouri, and graduated from Northwest Nodaway R-5 High School in 1961. He went on to Northwest Missouri State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education degree in 1966. He taught high school Industrial Arts from 1966 to 1974 in Missouri. He had several agricultural-related jobs from 1975 to 1980. He began a career as a Peace Officer from 1980 to 2005 in Missouri, Iowa, and Oklahoma.

Arlen accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, baptized in their family church as a teenager. Arlen met Dixie in Bethany, Missouri, in 1982. Then began a story that defined his heart's story. On August 7, 1982, Arlen married Dixie in a union that took place at the First Baptist Church in Bethany, Missouri. Their love for each other deepened alongside their growing devotion to Jesus, anchoring him through every joy and challenge. Together, they built a life grounded in faith and love that abounds and stands as a testament to their shared commitment to the Lord and each other.

In 1991, Arlen and Dixie adopted their greatest blessing, Richard Aaron Armstrong. Arlen embraced fatherhood, finding much joy in teaching Richard all about life and many hobbies. Arlen enjoyed fishing for trout on Lake Taneycomo and taking Dixie and Richard to Branson, Missouri, several times a year. Arlen was very talented at woodworking and could fix anything around the home. Arlen loved to read and always kept up with politics.

Arlen shared many childhood adventures with his only sister, Monreen Bate Hersh, who lives in Ozark, Missouri. Though his parents, Homer and Eunice Armstrong, had passed before him, Arlen carried them in his heart.

Arlen is survived by his wife, Dixie Goold Armstrong, one son, Richard Aaron Armstong, his sister Monreen Hersh of Ozark, Missouri, a sister and brother-in-law of Minden, Iowa, and two nieces and three nephews.

Arlen's story wasn't one of grand gestures but of quiet, steady impact. His life was one of kindness and love for his family. Arlen Aaron Armstrong fought the good fight against cancer for four years and five months. He left this world surrounded by love and leaving behind a legacy that will never fade.