Arnold Ray Betzer

Arnold “Arnie” Ray Betzer, 91, of Nooksack, Washington, formally of Marion, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at home. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the Central City American Legion. Private interment will be held at Mount Clark Cemetery, Central City.

Arnie was born on March 17, 1934, on the family farm near Martelle, Iowa. The son of Harold and Ethel (Dragoo) Betzer. He attended country school and graduated from Central City Community Schools. He married Deanna Lee Hutchison on March 7, 1957; they later divorced. He married Debora June Clinton. He worked across various construction trades before becoming a Union Pipefitter, a role he held until his retirement.

Arnie had many passions, working on and riding motorcycles, even riding his trike until a couple of years ago. Building race cars, engines, and attending races. He proudly obtained his pilot's license and enjoyed flying. He also had a passion for music; he collected guitars and harmonicas. You could always find him with a harmonica in his pocket! He enjoyed attending Iowa Hawkeyes Women’s Basketball and was a season ticket holder for many years. He enjoyed spending time and was extremely proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He will truly be missed.

He is survived by his children, Ed (Sherry) Betzer, Dennis (Gina) Betzer, Jonn (Terri) Betzer, Craig (Sheila) Betzer, Chris (Carol) Betzer, Darrell (Jennifer) Betzer, Doug Betzer, Brian (Kristina) Wood, Malena (Ryan) Clement, and Jodi (Mark) Holtz; 21 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; sisters, Eileen (James) Moehnke and Wilda (Chuck) Kress.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Debora; step-son, Allen Wood; siblings, Myrta (Burl) Andrews, Joan (Robert) Simmen, Richard (Orlena) Betzer, and Nelda (Leroy) Knowlton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.