Obituary

Ira I. Arrowsmith, 94, died Wednesday, March 9, 2011 at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in Wichita. He was born July 7, 1916 in Halstead to Boyd and Ida (Chapin) Arrowsmith.

On September 25, 1937 he married Hilda Kater in Newton. She preceded him in death on October 2, 2010.

He was a longtime active member of the First United Church of Christ in Newton. He served his country in the U.S. Army during WW II from August 1943 to November 1945. Ira was deployed on Anzio Beach and fought through Italy as staff sergeant of K Company, 133rd infantry 34th Red Bull Division. He was awarded three purple hearts and the bronze star.

Upon returning to Newton, he worked for the Santa Fe railroad for over 30 years. He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans; American Legion; and Veterans of Foreign War. He was alwo a member of the Midwestern Polka Club. He enjoyed fishing and tending his rose garden, traveling and dancing. His family was important to him and he greatly looked forward to spending time with his loving family and many friends.

He is survived by his daughter and husband, Karen and Bob Hummel, Davenport, Iowa; Sister Dora Bond, Lovell, Wyoming; Sister-in-law Pearl Kater, Sedgwick; 2 grandsons, Glen and wife, Carrie Hummel, Davenport, Iowa and Ross and wife Michelle Hummel, San Francisco, California and 5 great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, two brothers and three sisters.

Funeral was March 14 at First United Church of Christ, Newton, with Pastor Jerry Scribner presiding. Burial was in Greenwood Cemetery, Newton.

Memorials to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice.