Dorothy Raynelle Arndt, 95, of Chariton, Iowa, formerly of Reedsburg, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2025, at the West Ridge Specialty Care Center in Knoxville, IA. Dorothy was born on February 1, 1930, In Hartford, WI, the daughter of Albert and Bertha (Blodgett) Wolf.

On October 11, 1947, Dorothy married Royce E. Yerges in Jefferson, WI. Their 14-year marriage was blessed with five children. During this time, Dorothy and Royce owned and operated Edgerton Camera and Music Store, where she was honored as the Edgerton Centennial Queen in July 1953. Dorothy also pursued higher education, completing two years at Milton College.

On January 22, 1962, Dorothy married Delbert G. Arndt, and this union added two stepchildren to the family. After their marriage Dorothy and Delbert moved with the family to Racine, WI. After the children had left home they moved to Franksville, WI. They traveled via their RV prior to moving into the home they built in Florida. They had many wonderful years in Florida where Dorothy was an active member of the Hernando Church of the Nazarene. Delbert's health required a move back to WI, where they lived in Reedsburg near their family.

Throughout her life, Dorothy was known for her faith, love of family, and a deep love of music. A talented pianist and organist, she was a longtime member of the Church of God, where she used her musical gifts to enrich the worship experience. She never missed an opportunity to share her passion for music, bringing joy to all who heard her play. Dorothy spent her final years at Homestead Assisted Living, where she was lovingly cared for by the dedicated staff. During her time there, she stayed actively engaged, playing for Sunday Chapel and forming many lasting friendships with both residents and staff. Dorothy's caring spirit extended beyond her musical contributions. She took it upon herself to order Our Daily Bread for the residents, devotional time.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Delbert George Arndt; her daughter, Patty, in infancy; her son, Duane; her stepson; Michael, daughter in-law Paula Marie Woodward Yerges, her brothers; Alvin (Betty) Wolf, Everett (Donna) Wolf, her sisters-in-law; Carol Wolf, Jeanne Wolf, Esther Wolf, and Nancy Wolf; and several nieces and nephews..

Dorothy deeply cherished spending time with her family and friends. She is survived by her children: Leslie (Tammy) Yerges of NC, Daryl (Mary) Yerges of Derby, IA, and Stanley (Aly) Yerges of Tomahawk; daughter-in-law Alicia Yerges of Racine; step-daughter Kathleen (Tom) Andreasen of Union Grove; along with her 13 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, 16 great-great grandchildren who brought her much joy. She is also survived by her siblings, Millie, Minnie, Norman and Jim.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the Church of God, 1225 N Dewey Avenue, Reedsburg, WI, with Pastor Mike Lopp officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at the church. Burial will take place at 2:00 PM on Monday, April 7, 2025, in Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove, WI. Memorials of remembrance may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in lieu of flowers.

The Farber Funeral Home, Reedsburg, is assisting the family with the arrangements.