Obituaries : James “Jim” Edward Arens

James “Jim” Edward Arens, 79, of Belle Plaine, IA passed away December 8, 2025 at Colonial Manor Amana, IA.

Jim was born on June 12, 1946, to Rene and Madeline (DeNeve) Arens at the Corn Belt Hospital in Belle Plaine. Raised on the family farm outside Belle Plaine, Jim learned from a young age the value of hard work — rising early for morning chores, helping his father milk cows, and pitching in with field work. As a young child growing up during those busy farm days, Jim developed a strong work ethic and deep appreciation for the rural life. Jim took great pride in his heritage: he was 100% Belgian, with grandparents who had immigrated from Belgium. 

Jim graduated from Belle Plaine High School with the Class of 1964. On September 7, 1965, Jim joined the Army National Guard. He received basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO and served with Co. B 2nd Battalion and later trained at Fort Gordon, GA for six months. Jim trained as a radioman and earned his sharp shooter status. His official rank was Specialist Four and was honorably discharged on August 28, 1971.  Jim continued to serve as a longtime member of the Belle Plaine American Legion Post #39. 

On September 14, 1968, Jim married Cynthia Cronbaugh at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Belle Plaine. Jim and Cynthia purchased a farm where they raised hogs, fed cattle, grew corn, soybeans, and hay. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising two children, Daniel and Julie along with welcoming five grandchildren and one great-grandson. Later in life, Jim worked for Kinze Manufacturing, building planters. 

Jim loved music and never passed up a chance to dance. He taught many young people line dancing, —his favorite being the alligator dance. When it came to food and drink, Jim kept things simple: Busch Light, Pepsi, grilled hamburgers, and a good steak were his staples. Anyone who knew him knew his sweet tooth—he could put away half an angel food cake in a single day. The traditional Belgian game of Rolle Bolle wasn’t just a pastime for him; it was a connection to his roots.

Jim is survived by his wife, Cynthia of Belle Plaine; children, Dan Arens, of Belle Plaine, Julie (Shaun Shannon) Bashara of Grimes; grandchildren, Taylor (Michael), Tyler (Dani), Nathan, Ava, Lily; great-grandson, Carter. He grew up alongside four siblings, Ed Arens, Joyce (Steve) Russell, Jean (Tom) Sippy, Janet (Larry) Balvin and numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; and daughter-in-law, Dena Arens.  

Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 13, 2025 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Belle Plaine. Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery, Belle Plaine, IA with military honors. 

Visitation is 4-7 p.m. Friday December 12th at Hrabak-Neuhaus Funeral Service, Belle Plaine, with vigil at 7 p.m. Memorials may be directed to the family.