Arnold E. Clevenger, Sr.

Arnold E. Clevenger Sr., 84, passed away peacefully in the early morning of September 8th at Ball Memorial Hospital with family by his side. Arnie was born in Cowan, Indiana on July 5th, 1938, the second youngest of five children, to John and Lucille (Fry) Clevenger. He grew up in Eaton and attended Eaton High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1958. As an Eaton Norseman, Arnie lettered in basketball, participated in FFA and theatre, and was very active in 4-H; he also met the love of his life. On September 27th, 1958, he married Shirley Thurman, his wife of 64 years. Together they raised four children and four grandchildren, and traveled to all 50 states.

Arnie worked for Ball State University for 33 years, and was a member of Bethel Chapel, Western Film Club, and the Crown City Squares. Additionally, he was a 60+ year Master Mason with Anthony Lodge No. 171, and took great pride in joining the Scottish Rite at the same time as his three sons. His other interests included square dancing, fishing, travel, and collecting John Wayne memorabilia— he maintained a museum of his collection, and enjoyed sharing it with visitors.

Arnie had many adventures with his family, and his ornery sense of humor always brought a smile to those who knew him. He was hardworking and generous, consistently lending a hand to those in need. He will be remembered as a loving husband and father, devoted to his children and grandchildren.

Arnie is survived by his wife Shirley Clevenger of Albany, IN; their children, Arnold Jr. (Leisha), Patricia Sharp (Steve), John (Jody), and Nicholas. His grandchildren include Wesley (Robin), Benjamin (Sarah), August (Robert), and Cameron. He is also survived by his older brother Donald (Sandra) of Iowa, and many nieces, nephews, and surrogate grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings John (Jack) Jr., Dolores Shank Arbogast, and Dean.

Services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at Meacham Funeral Service with burial following at Black Cemetery. 

Visiting hours are Monday, September 12, 2022 from 4 until 8 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the funeral home.  Masonic rites will be given Monday at 8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Anthony Lodge No. 171, F. & A. M., P.O. Box 25, Albany, IN, 47320.

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