In Loving Memory of Marvin Arnold Arneson
May 20, 1943 – March 25, 2026
Marvin Arnold Arneson, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026, at the age of 82.
Marvin was born on May 20,1943, in Dawson, Minnesota, to Arnold and Marie (Hofseth) Arneson. He was confirmed at Grace Lutheran Church in Dawson and attended school there until the 10th grade before graduating from Madison High School in 1962.
In February of 1963, Marvin married Jo Mattson. Together they raised three children, Craig, Cindy and Mathew and built a life rooted in hard work and family. Marvin began his career in the flooring industry after moving to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he took advice from his brother-in-law, Ordean Mattson. In 1969, he earned his business degree from the University of Minnesota School of Business and went on to work for 3M, where he spent five years.
In 1974, Marvin returned to Madison, Minnesota, where he purchased his uncle’s tire shop and operated it for four years. In 1978, he returned to 3M, this time in Aberdeen, South Dakota, where he worked until 1994. After semi-retiring, Marvin moved to Apple Valley, Minnesota, where he owned and operated his own hardwood flooring business until retirement.
Later in life, Marvin relocated to Slayton, Minnesota. During retirement, he enjoyed working summers at the Slayton Golf Course and spent his winters in Mission, Texas. Marvin liked football but loved and was a devoted Minnesota Vikings fan, rarely missing a game. He also shared a special bond with his brother Alt through their love of stock car racing, creating memories that meant a great deal to him. Marvin loved spending time at the community center playing games and cards, but above all, he cherished time with his family.
Marvin is survived by his children: Craig “Char” Arneson of Fort Pierre, South Dakota; Cindy “Rob” Polasky of Pierre, South Dakota; and Mathew “Shannon Rockafellow” Arneson of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Jaymason “Tyson” Bramblee, Amanda “Josh” Atanasu, Garett “Nicole” Whipple, Tacha “Josh” Artz, and Megan “Daquan” Brooks; as well as nine great-grandchildren.
He is further survived by his sisters, Ardis Groninga and Betty Halverson, along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Marie Arneson; his brother, Alt Arneson; sister-in-law Sharon Arneson; and brothers-in-law Rich Groninga and Charlie Halverson.
Marvin will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his dedication to family, and the joy he found in simple moments—whether on the golf course, watching NFL or racing, around a card table, or surrounded by those he loved most.
Memorial Service
Friday, April 17, 2026
11:00 am
Borgund Lutheran
Rural Madison, MN 56256
Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.
