John J. Arenas, Jr.
June 22, 1927 ~ January 9, 2014
John J. Arenas, Jr, 86, of Cedar Rapids, died on Thursday, January 9, 2014, at Northbrook Manor, Cedar Rapids. Funeral Services: 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 13, 2014, at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids, by Deacon Bob Hurych. Visitation from 9:30 a.m. until service time on Monday at the funeral home. Burial: Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Cedar Rapids. Military honors accorded by VFW Post 788. Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Josephine; two daughters, Jackie (Richard Jr.) Mason, and Joan (Craig) Huggins, all of Cedar Rapids; brother, Joe (Lydia) Arenas of Donna, Texas; sister, Anita Sells of Cedar Rapids; four grandchildren, Zachary, Luke, Anna, and Nicholas; and many nieces and nephews. John was born June 22, 1927, in Cedar Rapids, the son of John and Maria (Lopez) Arenas Sr. He graduated from McKinley High School in 1947, and went on to serve in the US Army from 1950-1952. On August 29, 1959, he married Josephine Cano in Iowa City. John worked for 35 years at Iowa Steel and Iowa Manufacturing before his retirement. He will be remembered as an avid sports fan, especially the Iowa Hawkeyes. Over the years he also played in many local sports leagues. John enjoyed being outside and working in his yard, but especially loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, the VFW, and AFL-CIO Ironworkers Harmony Lodge 831. John was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jesse Arenas; and sisters, Paula McLaud, Frances Bopp, and Eva Rodriguez. The family extends a sincere thank you to his Homewatch caregivers, Doreen and JoAnn, and the staff at Northbrook for their kind and compassionate care of John.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Photo Gallery
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
My family sends our heartfelt support to you all – death does happen, and we know it, but it still doesn’t make losing people we love any easier. Our love, thoughts and prayers will be with you during this tough time and always. Love from Deborah, Simone, Glen and Kahlil
I’ll keep the fond memories of Uncle John always and forever in my heart. His service to his country will always be appreciated.
How Uncle John loved his baseball life!
I came to know my Uncle John late in my life. But in the few encounters I had with him I quickly realized what a treasure he is. One thing I noticed was how quiet he was. He had a big smile, sparkling eyes, was very engaging and present in every conversation, though he hardly said a word. He was always listening. And, he was never far from Josie’s side.
In the summer of 2012 my grandson, Kahlil, and I had the pleasure of visiting Uncle John and Aunt Josie. This was the first, last and only time I saw Uncle John so animated. He got up out of his chair, pushed his walker to the side, stood up straight and strong, and showed Kahlil his baseball trophies. He enumerating on the events leading up to each game season won. This was a man who loved baseball! It was as if he were living each season once more. And, he talked a LOT. Hearing his delight in recounting the memories was better than attending the actual games.
I came again to visit the next year. Uncle John elegantly welcomed me at their front door. We had a tornado watch, big alerts on the TV. Josie, John and I were planning our escape to their basement (we figured John and Josie could take each stair one cheek at a time, if you know what I mean). The alert blew over. we didn’t have to go to the basement after all. And Uncle John elegantly guided me back to the door after the excitement was over.
Though I came to know you late in life, Uncle John, it didn’t take me long to realize what a special, gentle, loving man you are. I will always especially remember your big bright smile, engaging eyes, and how much you loved to talk about baseball.
My Uncle Johnny will be missed by us all. He was such a kind and gentle soul. Always made you feel welcome in his home and like you were important when carrying on a conversation with him. You will be missed by all of us. R.I.P. Until we meet again….
So sorry for your loss! Our thoughts and prayers are with your family! Hugs!
Uncle John was always such a thoughtful man, he always had time to toss the football with me at family reunions when I was a kid, and my boys always looked forward to the baseballs he would have every year for them. We all have fond memories of Uncle John. Love R.T. and Family
We will remember John as a kind and gentle man. We will miss his smile.
My heart and prayers go out to the family. You will be missed but not forgotten.
Sorry to read about John’s passing. He was a long time friend. We sold newspapers, played softball, and went to McKinley School together. My condolences to his family.
I always appreciated his smile and friendly demeanor whenever I visited.
We are so sorry for your loss, John was such a nice neighbor. After we moved in 1981 it was always great to see him. And a smile always, sad to loose such a nice person.