Keith Richard Arndt

Keith Richard Arndt, 90 of Lincoln, passed away February 1, 2025.  He was born January 26, 1935, in Columbus, NE to Pauline Lutz and Edmund Arndt of Platte Center, NE. He was a long-time member of the Lutheran Church starting as a young boy.

He graduated from Kramer High School in 1952.  After graduation, Keith attended The University of Nebraska in the College of Business and Engineering.  He loved flying and at the age of 16 he earned his pilot’s license.  He joined the ROTC in college and after graduating in 1957, went on to serve in Harrisburg, PA as a Captain in the Air Force under the Department of The Inspector General. He left the Air Force to work as private pilot as well as sales/sales management and product innovator for his father’s company, Habco of Columbus, NE and later for his father-in-law’s company, United Rentals headquarters in Lincoln, NE.

In College He Joined the Beta Sigma Psi Lutheran Fraternity.  There he met Sondra Kay Arndt of Lincoln. They married in December of 1958 and had two daughters Julie and Laurie.   They raised their family in Lincoln, NE.  Keith was a very active father, president of the PTA and president of the neighborhood pool association. He helped implement new playground equipment at Meadow Lane Elementary School and Meadow Lane Pool renovations including heated water, slides, and an expanded poolside area for parties. He was often seen down at the pool fixing something in the boiler room or attending his daughter’s swim meets. He parented with love, respect, and encouragement. He was a caring husband and was married to Sondra for 24 years.

Keith worked for Leach Camper Sales in sales for 43 years, 20 of those as Sales Manager.  He thoroughly enjoyed meeting people and helping the many customers find their vacation dream vehicle. So much so, he did not retire until he was 85 years old!   He loved sailing and could be found many weekends sailing his Catamaran at Branched Oak Lake with his family.  He also took his family on many vacations with a motor home leaving them with many fond memories and experiences.

On November 26, 1983, Keith married Joan Beebe of Stromsburg, NE.  During their 41 years of marriage, they enjoyed being with family and friends, as well as playing golf together.  Keith enjoyed gatherings with his 2 stepsons, Craig R. Beebe, Tim S. Beebe and their families.  He enjoyed attending the various activities of both the boys, his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  He was known to take lots of photos and perform magic tricks for the little ones.

Keith enjoyed telling stories of his many life and flying adventures.  He often commented how amazing God’s creations were in nature and space.  He was a loving family man, always had something positive to say, always willing to help those in need and glad to see you when you walked in the door.  He touched many people’s lives and will be missed.  We are looking forward to seeing him again one day.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, February 28, at Lincoln Berean Church, 6400 South 70th Street, Lincoln, NE. Following will be Cookies and Photos, then a 3:30 p.m. graveside Military Honors Ceremony/Burial at Wyuka Cemetery, Lincoln, NE, Military Section.  (3:15 Meet at the Wyuka Office for a procession to the Gravesite). The service may be livestreamed here.

Cremation, no visitation.

Keith is survived by:
His wife, Joan Arndt and 2 stepsons; Craig Beebe (Lori) Gresham, Tim Beebe (Lincoln), 4 step grandchildren; Brittany Volkmer (Trenton), Ryan Beebe (Kennedy), Logan Beebe, and Colton Beebe and 3 step great-grandchildren.

Ex-Wife Sondra Arndt, Daughters Julie Arndt Deemer (Gary), Lincoln, Laurie Sullivan (Pat) Omaha, grandchildren Sophie Sullivan, Nicholas Sullivan, Nicole Hollander.

Siblings Fred Arndt, Edina, MN, Paula Verdoorn, LoneTree,CO, Dana Arndt (Patty) Lincoln, NE.   Eight nieces and nephews.  Preceded in death by his parents.

To leave a condolence please use the form below. Alternatively, cards for the family can be sent to Joan Arndt, 2013 Greenbriar Lane, Lincoln, NE 68506.