Roben Wade Arnoldus

Celebrating Life

Roben Wade Arnoldus, 68, passed away on March 22, 2025, in Cove, Oregon. Born on September 7, 1956, in La Grande, Oregon, Roben dedicated his life to his family, faith, and the land he so lovingly cultivated.

A fourth-generation farmer, Roben’s passion for agriculture began as soon as he could walk. He greeted each day with the rising sun, tending to the soil with unwavering dedication. His efforts were recognized through numerous accolades, including Farmer of the Year in both 1989 and 2005, Outstanding Young Farmer in 1992 from the Chamber of Commerce, Oregon Wheat League Conservation Farmer of the Year in 1989, and the Oregon State University Extension Service Cooperator Award in 2016. These honors reflected not only his expertise but also his deep respect for the land and its stewardship.

Roben earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Eastern Oregon University. Though numbers may have been his trade by education, farming was his true calling. His work ethic was matched only by his boundless imagination and sharp sense of humor. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a hand to those in need. At the heart of it all was a kind and generous spirit that left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

His faith was a cornerstone of his life. Roben had a profound connection to God and often spoke of His mighty power and gentle love. He instilled these values in his children and grandson, ensuring that his spiritual legacy would endure through them. His favorite Bible verse was Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” In moments of reflection or hardship, he found solace in humming a verse from one of his cherished hymns: “I love to feel Thy presence near, dispelling all my doubt and fear…”

Everyone who knew him knew how much he loved to share stories about his son’s baseball games, and later, his grandsons’ games too! He never missed a single game, rain or shine. Roben would find a way to get to the baseball field or basketball gym to cheer on his favorite players. He came home with a new story to tell, and while he might have added a little flair to his tales, you could see just how proud he was of his boys. It was impossible not to smile while listening to him!

Roben is survived by his beloved wife, Cynthia Ann Arnoldus; his children: Austin Arnoldus; Alyssa Ann Johnson; her husband Tyler Johnson; and his cherished grandson Christian Johnson. His love for them was immeasurable, guiding them with wisdom gained from years spent working the land and walking in faith.

Roben often expressed that when his time came, he wished to become one with the land he had worked all his life—a sentiment that speaks to both his humility and deep-rooted connection to nature. May his memory continue to inspire those who knew him to live with kindness, faith, and an enduring love for creation.

A memorial service will be held on March 29, 2025, at Lighthouse Church in Island City, Oregon (10501 W 1st St.), beginning at 10:00 AM and concluding at 12:00 PM. The service falls on what would have been Roben and Cindy’s 45th wedding anniversary—a fitting tribute to a life built on love and devotion. Following the service, food will be served in the church gym as family and friends gather to honor his memory. A Public Viewing is scheduled for Friday, March 28, 2025, from 4:00 P.M.- 7:00 P.M. More details will follow. Please look for updates on Loveland Funeral Chapel’s website lovelandfuneralchapel.com

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