Erdene “Dean” Ellsworth Arras, 94, of Findlay passed away at Taylor Place on Sunday, August 25, 2024.
He was born in Jenera on March 26, 1930, the son of Clarence and Edna (Schaller) Arras. On July 17, 1949, he married Joan M. Stultz, who preceded him in death on November 2, 2013. That union lasted 13 years. Dean also shared his life with Donna Finley for more than 20 years. She preceded him in death in 2004.
Survivors include his son, Dan Arras, of Fostoria, and daughters, Janna (Joe) Petersen, of Loveland, CO, and Lori (Paul) Mihaly, of Loveland, CO. Grandchildren, Lucas Petersen, Hannah (Petersen) Krening, Nicolas Petersen, Abby (Arras) Hughes, Shane Arras, Amy Mihaly, Andrew Mihaly, Amanda (Mihaly) Sexton, Anthony Mihaly, Alyssa (Mihaly) Whited, Alayna (Mihaly) Decleva, Aiden Mihaly, Anna (Mihaly) Auffant, Autumn Mihaly, and 17 great-grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his parents and a brother, Morris Arras.
Dean was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church (WELS), Findlay and his family were
founding members that built the little stone church at 1315 North Main Street. He was also a member of the Moose, V.F.W., and Eagles lodge of Lakeview, Ohio. Dean also enjoyed playing cards, boating and loved all animals, especially his cat, Baby.
He served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War where he achieved the rank of Sergeant. Dean was employed at Monroe Systems as the Office Equipment Manager.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 12, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Coldren-Crates Funeral Home, Findlay. Funeral services will be Saturday at the funeral home at 11 a.m. with Rev. Robert Krueger officiating. A burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery where members of the Hancock County Memorial Veterans Squad will accord military rites.
Memorial contributions may be directed towards Logan County Humane Society. Online condolences may be expressed at www.coldrencrates.com.
