Arthur Deys' Obituary
Arthur Deys passed from this life on March 10, 2024. He was 81 years old. He was born on August 9, 1942 in Rochester, NY to Arthur and Clara Deys. His early years were spent in Rochester, Palmyra and Elmira, NY before moving to Orlando, FL in the fifth grade. After completing the tenth grade, he enrolled, by sponsorship, at Midwestern School of Evangelism in Iowa wherein he earned is Bachelor of Sacred Literature. He met and married the love of his life, Patricia Elizabeth Engelhaupt, on September 5, 1961. Along with 62 years of marriage, God blessed them with two children, Christina Lynn and Roger LeRoy.
Prior to his ordination in December 1965, he ministered on the Red Lake Indian (Chippewa) Reservation in northern Minnesota. In 1966, he moved his family to Fridley, MN and started a new church plant which met in his home. He ministered with the Fridley Church of Christ for nearly twenty-three years before moving to Long Beach, CA. Living in California, he helped minister in a couple of churches. In 1991 he and Pat moved to Longmont, CO. By invitation, he started working with the Church in Aurora shortly thereafter, where he ministered for the next 28 years. In 2019, he and Pat moved with their family to Boonville, MO where they enjoy great fellowship with their church family at Riverside Christian Church.
Along with being a full-time minister, Art worked full-time in the world of Aerospace, naval ordinance and military/commercial airlines. He was a Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) with McDonnell Airlines. His positional title was Senior Subcontract Negotiating Specialist and the final contract negotiated was worth $180 million with a company in England.
Art loved to play baseball and softball where he played for several different championship teams. His other sports included football and broomball and he also coached teams for his daughter and son. Hunting and fishing were special times for him along with reading in his quiet moments.
He is survived by his wife Patricia and daughter Christina (Michael). Four grandchildren: Brandon (Kristen) Nelson, Cameron (Shelby) Nelson, Trenton Nelson and Kelli (Austin) Williams. Five great grandchildren: Rhys, Liv, Tesni, Acadia and Solveig. He is preceded in death by his son Roger in 1985.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to Riverside Christian Church in Art’s name would be greatly appreciated.
Per Art’s wishes, there will be no memorial service. Instead, please enjoy a root beer float or ice cream, his favorites, together and share memories of Art.
What’s your fondest memory of Arthur?
What’s a lesson you learned from Arthur?
Share a story where Arthur's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Arthur you’ll never forget.
How did Arthur make you smile?