Gary LeRoy Arndt

Gary LeRoy Arndt, the son of LaVern and Evelyn Flack Arndt, was born February 6, 1942, in Spencer, IA. His childhood years were spent in Spencer where he attended school and played on the Spencer Tiger Football team graduating in 1961.

Right out of High School, Gary had the opportunity to join the NFL with the Miami Dolphins, however he met the love of his life and married Peggy Hinders on June 9, 1961 in Cherokee, IA. Following their marriage, they lived in the communities of Dickens, Spencer and Bena, MN before moving back to Dickens. They owned and operated the “Runaway Restaurant & Lounge” for 14 years in Ruthven, IA. Gary also worked at Cleber’s Service Station for many years as a mechanic. In his spare time, Gary enjoyed watching NFL, especially the Minnesota Vikings, ordering tacos from Lindys and listening to the songs Peggy sang on his Thursday evenings. Most of all, Gary loved spending time with his girls. Gary married Linda Bryant.

Gary passed away at his home with his family by his side on Sunday, September 27, 2026 at the age of 84. He is preceded in death by his parents; two wives, Peggy and Linda; granddaughter, Dixie Norgaard; sister, LaVone Vadd and brother, Bob Arndt.

He is survived by his two daughters: Tracy Lea Arndt Stangel of Grand Rapids, MN and Tricia Lynn Arndt Norgaard of Dickens, IA; 7 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; sister, Cherie (Bob) Frey of Gretna, NE; brother, Daryl Arndt of Cleghorn, NE; other relatives and friends.