Craig D. Arendt

The world lost a remarkable man, Craig Arendt, on Sunday, October 16, 2022 due to a medical emergency at his home in Eau Claire. He was admired for his thoughtfulness, honesty, intelligence, strength, bravery, and adventurous spirit. Of the mountain of words we could use to describe him, he was, above all, a man of integrity. Craig was the kind of guy who would do the right thing even when no one was watching. The kind of guy who would literally (true story) dive head-first down a waterfall after you.

While waterfall-chasing, sailing excursions, and general adventure opportunities were always on his radar, Craig's top priority was the people around him. He was an extraordinary dad, a loving son and brother, and an incredible partner to Emily. He was an all-around exceptional person who did many things for many people without looking for praise. Craig had a way of naturally inspiring those around him to be the best versions of themselves. He truly enjoyed the many good times and special people in his life.

Craig was born September 7, 1974, in Bloomer to Danny and Evone “Midge” (Swartz) Arendt.

He was a graduate of Bloomer High School (Class of ’92), UW-River Falls in Physics, and earned a Master of Engineering Management degree from Old Dominion University. He served as a Nuclear Engineer in the US Navy, was VP of Business Development for Catalytic Combustion, a Project Management Consultant for Global Finishing Solutions, and most recently, General Manager of his company, C4 Process and Management Company.

Craig is survived by his daughters, Kyra Arendt of Charlotte, NC, and Aspyn Arendt of Minneapolis, MN; his mother Evone “Midge” Arendt of Bloomer; significant other, Emily Matchey of Eau Claire and her children, Jake Matchey (Laney Schultz) of Waukee, IA, and Anna Matchey (Aidan Schmidt) of Madison, WI; brothers Curt (Lorre) Arendt and Chad Arendt; sisters Christy Durch (Brian Schwab) and Cherie Bowe all of Bloomer; Uncle Russ (Beverly) Swartz of Iron River, WI; nieces and nephew, cousins, and great nieces and nephews, and many other relatives and friends.

Craig was preceded in death by his father, Danny Arendt; brother-in-law, Bobby Durch; nephew, Jeremy Arendt; maternal grandparents Frieda and George Swartz and paternal grandparents Donald and Alberta Arendt, several aunts and uncles, other relatives, and close friends.

A visitation and celebration of life for Craig will be held at Olson Funeral Home of Bloomer on Thursday, October 20, 2022, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm with a brief service at 8:00. Online Condolences may be expressed at olsonfunerealhomebloomer.com