Dennis E. Arends

Live Stream Dennis Arends

Dennis Eugene (Butch) Arends, born July 10, 1945, in Burlington, Colorado, passed away on September 26, 2024. He was the third of four boys of Carl and Esther Arends and grew up around Bethune, CO, where he attended school. Butch was very shy in his younger years, and he could always be found in the barn spending time with the bucket calves. He came out of his shell in high school and was a great addition to the basketball team, he was a great ball handler and excellent shooter! After graduating high school in 1964, Butch attended CSU studying Agriculture, which was his true passion. 

He returned to Bethune in 1969 and started farming with his brother, LeRoy - this continued for several years. During this time, he met and married Vicky Shively, and to this union, two children were born, Melisa in 1975 and Mason in 1977. After Butch and Vicky parted ways, he moved to Florissant, CO for a short time before moving to Durant, OK, where resumed his passion for farming. Ultimately, he found his way back to Burlington, where he was a beloved figure in the community and lived a full life dedicated to family, friends and his passions

. Butch enjoyed bowling and golfing until he no longer could, due to conditions with his back. He had several friends who he'd meet up with for coffee, and he really liked spending time at the sale barn watching the cattle sales. He worked for a few local farmers over the years, dabbled in real estate and his last job being for Stratton Equity Coop, where he made many lasting connections and contributions. In his spare time, he enjoyed collecting model John Deere and Case IH tractors, and had a particular fondness for the Arends Family homemade German sausage. His love for country music filled his home with melodies and memories, and he often spent time watching sports and his favorite shows, including Fox News and Joel Osteen. Family was everything to Butch and he so enjoyed his time spent with each and every one.

 He is survived by his children, Melisa (John) Jonsson, Mason (Melanie) Arends and his cherished grandchildren, Damian Jonsson, Brendan Jonsson, Megan Jonsson, Leighton Arends and Ethan Arends. He also leaves behind his brothers, LeRoy (Karen) Arends, Norman (Kay) Arends, Paul (Phyllis) Arends and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, who will miss him dearly. Butch treasured the moments spent with loved ones and enjoyed the simple pleasure of reading. Butch's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.