Arnold Roorda, 93, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2024 at SMP Health Ave Maria. Arnold was born on June 8, 1930 at the farm home in rural Ypsilanti, ND to John P. and Hilda Lengkeek Roorda. He attended the rural Radtke school for 8 years.
Arnold worked on the family farm until the fall of 1954. He was united in marriage to Joyce Krueger of Sheldon, ND on October 15, 1954 and they were married for 68 years. They lived in Fargo, ND for a short time. Arnold was employed in the winter months of 1954 and 1955, working in the stockyards in West Fargo and later at a Standard Oil filling station in Fargo. In 1955, they moved to the farm in Meadowlake Township. He farmed with his dad and brother Perry, and later with his sons, Kevin and Neil. In August of 1992, they moved to Jamestown, ND. Farming was still a big part of his life and he drove out to the farm in daughter Arnola’s first car, a 1977 Toyota Celica (with over 400,000 miles).
Arnold served the Lord faithfully as a member of the North Marion Reformed Church, where he made his profession of faith. Later he became a member of the First Church of the Nazarene. He gave of his time in many capacities, including Sunday School teacher, bus driver, grounds keeper and serving on church boards. He was active for many years as a committee member of the SE Chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship and served on the ND State Board. He also served on the Meadowlake township board for many years. He had a servant heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand.
Arnold enjoyed family reunions and get togethers with all the grandchildren. His favorite game with them was Rummikub. He also enjoyed going to the Winter Show rodeos and Medora. Singing was a favorite of Arnold’s, whether it be in duets, quartets, choirs or a mens group. The highlights of his life were shared with his dear wife Joyce, with a trip to the Holy Land, visiting Europe and to view the place in Holland where his ancestors came from.
Arnold is survived by two daughters and two sons: Arnola Aichele (Larry); Kevin (Cindy) Roorda; Neil (Carla) Roorda; Rachel (Keith) Alber. Grandchildren: Kristina (Ryan) Schantz; Austin Aichele (Brittany); Taylor Roorda; Jamison Roorda; Andrea (Ryan) Adkins; Blake (Shawnee) Roorda; Ryan (Chelsey) Alber; Kailey (Tanner) Lunzman. Great grandchildren: Kensie and Calin Schantz; Cambrie Huber; Carter and Crosby Alber. Brother, Perry Roorda and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Arnold was preceded in death by his parents, wife Joyce, sisters, Annetta Hansen, Rena Van Dyke, Julie Heim, Marie Van Dyke and grandson Rusty Aichele.
Arnold’s family would like to extend a heartfelt “Thank You” to the staff at Ave Maria for their kindness and care.
Visitation will be 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a prayer service at 7:00 PM, Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at Eddy Funeral Home. Funeral service will be 10:30 AM, Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at First Church of the Nazarene, Jamestown, ND with Pastor Greg Allen officiating. Interment at North Marion Reformed Cemetery.
Service will be livestreamed @
J1naz.org.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.
Eddy Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.