William Joseph Arends

William "Bill" Arends, age 82, of Danbury, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, at Frederic Nursing & Rehab Center, surrounded by loved ones.

Bill was born on October 22, 1943, to Nick and Elizabeth Arends and was raised on the family farm near Borup. Growing up as one of ten children, Bill learned early the values of hard work, loyalty, and the importance of family-values that shaped the man he would become. The farm was filled with chores, spirited sibling adventures, and plenty of laughter, laying the foundation for a life rooted in love and resilience.

After graduating from high school, Bill proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving his country from 1962 to 1965. His time in the Marines instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and patriotism that remained with him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Bill moved to Fargo, where fate introduced him to the love of his life, Ellyn "Sue" Ellingson. They were married on June 8th, 1968 in Ada and soon made their home in St. Paul. Together they built a life grounded in love, laughter, and devotion, welcoming three children-Nikki, Lisa, and Bill-who were the pride and joy of their lives.

Bill dedicated more than 30 years of service to UPS, where his strong work ethic and friendly nature earned him the respect of colleagues and the gift of many lifelong friendships. He was known for his reliability, his easy smile, and dry humor.

Bill and Sue cherished time with their family at their cabin in Danbury. What began as a weekend retreat eventually became their dream retirement destination in 2000. Danbury was truly Bill's happy place. There, he found not only peace in the Northwoods but also a close-knit community of friends who became like family. Weekends were often spent rotating between homes for dinners, card games, and spirited rounds of pool. Sundays meant gathering to cheer on the Minnesota Vikings-or, on occasion and with good-natured reluctance, watching the Green Bay Packers.

Bill had a love for simple pleasures. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing with friends, competing in bowling and pool leagues, and faithfully watching Minnesota Twins games.

Family was always at the center of Bill's world. Despite busy lives and miles between them, he remained close to his many siblings, sharing stories, laughter, and unwavering love whenever they gathered. After the heartbreaking loss of Sue in 2004, Bill found renewed joy and purpose in becoming a grandfather. His three grandchildren-Elly, Logan, and Brady-brought light back into his life. He treasured every event, celebration, and simple moment spent with them, and he was never shy about expressing how proud he was of each of them.

Bill is survived by his children, Nicole Arends; Lisa (Mike) Wolf; and Bill Arends; his beloved grandchildren, Elly Johnson, Logan Arends, and Brady Arends; his siblings, Catherine Olson; Betty (Bob) Halverson; John Arends; Dick (Gail) Arends; Francis (Darlena) Arends; and Mary (David) Mehl; brother in law Jerry Swenson, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sue Arends; sisters Dorothy Swensen, Margaret Campbell, and Marie Arends; and his longtime partner, JoAnn Eliason.

A burial service with military honors will be held at Danbury Cemetery on Tuesday, April 7, at 1pm, where Bill will be laid to rest beside his beloved Sue.

Bill will be remembered for his steady presence, his deep devotion to family, his quick wit, and signature chuckle. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the wonderful people at St Croix Hospice and Frederic Nursing and Rehab for the care and support provided.

Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed online at swedberg-taylor.com.