Arden G. Wilson, age 84, of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Aspirus Riverview Hospital in Wisconsin Rapids.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Ritchay Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9:00am until the time of service. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery with military honors performed by American Legion Post #9.
Arden was born on January 20, 1941, in Adams, to Harold and Dorothy (Wollert) Wilson. He graduated from Adams Friendship High School in 1958 and then received his bachelor’s degree from St. Point University. Arden proudly served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War from 1962-1966.
Arden married his first wife, Jaroldine (Kvetek) Wilson on June 10, 1967, at St. Casimir Catholic Church in Stevens Point. He later married Lorraine (Starks) Wilson on June 5, 1982, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Wisconsin Rapids. Arden worked in a variety
of professions throughout his life, including as a biology teacher, logger, and over-the-road truck driver. He then worked at the Black River Falls Correctional Institution, where he retired as a Sgt Officer after 15 years.
Arden was a proud member of the NRA and the American Legion Post #9. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and collecting antique cars.
Arden is survived by his daughter, Merideth Hoffman; stepchildren, Ray (Lynn) Starks, John Starks, and Carol (Randy) Ellie; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Lola Wilson.
He is preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Jaroldine C. Wilson; second wife, Lorraine Wilson; two granddaughters; two stepsons, Kenneth and Rick Starks; stepdaughter, Judy Beliles; son-in-law, Mark Hoffman; brother, Harold Wilson; a red dog; and a blue truck.
Ritchay Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
