Obituary of Arnold Leonard Fosteson Jr.

Arnold Leonard Fosteson Jr. died peacefully of old age on August 11, 2024, at his residence in Farmington, Minnesota. He would have been 101 on December 16, 2024.

Arnold was born in 1923 in Bismarck, North Dakota, to parents Arnold Sr. and Nellie Fosteson, nee Hubbert. His folks moved often throughout his childhood, which may have instilled in him a wandering spirit since he lived in over 30 different places during the course of his 100+ years. Every move brought the opportunity to make new friends.

Arnold served in the U.S. Army Air Corps—precursor to the Air Force—during World War II as a weather observer. After mustering out, he attended St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, where he met his future wife, Evelyn Jorstad. Ev and Arnie married in 1948 and began a relationship that would last nearly 75 years. Arnold graduated with a business degree from Hamline University and began a career in banking, following in Arnold Sr.’s footsteps. His banking career took him to North Dakota, northern Minnesota, southern Minnesota, the Twin Cities, rural Wisconsin, and eventually Phoenix, Arizona. He ended his long working life with Phoenix Transit, where he spent several enjoyable years as a dispatcher. Throughout his life, he loved the great outdoors—hunting, fishing, golfing—just being outside and communing with nature. He and Evelyn were fortunate to make and maintain many lifelong friendships throughout their numerous moves and relocations.

Arnold was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold Sr. and Nellie Fosteson, and by his dear, devoted wife of nearly 75 years, Evelyn.

He is survived by daughter Paula (Daniel) Jewell, son Grant (Ms. Jerry Tefft) Fosteson, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends, and many other relatives.

A private celebration of life will be held for Arnold in September.