Arie Newton Pack

Arie Newton Pack, born July 30, 1934, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Roy Pack Senior and Esther (Visser), passed away peacefully on December 11, 2024, at the age of 90. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Phyllis Price, and his daughter Diana Ray Griffin. Arie was married to his beloved wife, Wilma Jean (Phillips), for 68 years. They wed on March 17, 1956, they were engaged after a whirlwind two-week courtship. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and family. He is survived by his wife, Wilma Jean; their two daughters, Susan Niffenegger (Chris) and Lisa Tesdall (Mark); eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and his brother, Roy Pack Junior (Gaye). Arie graduated from East High School in 1953. Early in his marriage, he worked for A&P Grocery, where he became the youngest store manager ever hired. Later, he retired from the Des Moines Public School Transportation Department, where his exceptional memory, organizational skills, and dedication to safety were evident in his management of bus routes. Arie knew every street, address, and even the color of homes along his routes. Arie was an active and dedicated member of his community. For ...[more]

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y years, he volunteered at Oakwood United Methodist Church in Pleasant Hill, helping with their annual spaghetti supper and auction. He was also president of the AFSCME Union while working and served as the HOA president of his townhome community until just a few years ago. Arie was a tech-savvy senior, staying connected with family and friends through Facebook and email. In his personal life, Arie had many hobbies. He enjoyed playing cards and dominoes, woodworking, creating small benches and crafts for his family and friends. He also built decks and even an addition to one of their homes. He was an avid gardener, maintaining a meticulous yard that he took great pride in. Arie and Wilma loved to travel, especially wintering in Florida with family and friends. Three years ago, Arie and Wilma moved to Valley View Retirement Apartments, where they formed lasting friendships and enjoyed the camaraderie of their new community. When Arie could no longer drive to Oakwood Church, they began attending services at the chapel at Valley View, bringing them even closer to their friends and the chaplain. Arie never met a stranger. He was known for his warm smile, quick wit, big hugs, cheerful outlook, and his deep love for the Lord. Even in the toughest of times, you could often hear him say, "And that's a good thing." He saw the goodness in everyone and brought out the best in those around him. Arie was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and he will be deeply missed. This is not goodbye; it is simply, "We will see you later." ..."And that's a good thing". A celebration of Arie's life will be held at 11:00 AM on January 25, 2025, at Valley View Village Chapel, 2571 Guthrie Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50317. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Care Center and everyone at Hospice for the compassionate care they provided. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Valley View Village Chapel Renovation fund. Valley View Village Attn: Philanthropy 7171 Ohms Lane Edina, MN 55439 https://www.valleyviewvillage.org/donate/