Arnold Ditch, 86, of Cedar Rapids, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at the Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, Hiawatha.

A celebration of Arnold's life will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, February 11th, at All Saints Catholic Church, Cedar Rapids. A luncheon will be served following the Mass in the church social hall. Burial with military rites will follow at Shiloh Cemetery, Hiawatha. Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 P.M. Friday at Papich-Kuba Janeba Chapel West, 1604 "J" Street S.W., where a vigil service will be held at 4:00 P.M.

Arnold James Ditch was born on December 3, 1930 in Cedar Rapids to Francis and Mary (Snobl) Ditch. He grew up in Bertram and attended McKinley High School. Arnold proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1950-1954. He married Dolores Marie Skarda on January 30, 1956 in Cedar Rapids. Arnold and Dolores celebrated a loving commitment of 61 years of marriage.

Arnold was a generous and supportive husband, father, grandfather and friend. His best friend and partner of 61 years, Dolores, survives him. He was extremely proud of his children: two sons, Kenneth (Becky) Ditch and Loren (Sharon) Ditch and daughters, Kathy (Gary) Rumelhart and Loraine (Roger) Osborn. He is also survived by his brothers, Stanley (Dorothy) Ditch, Delbert Ditch, Larry (Sharon) Ditch; his baby sister, Mary (David) Shakespeare and sister-in-law, Patti Ditch. Arnold left a living legacy of 4 children, 10 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, as well as his many loving friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Leonard Ditch and his sister-in-law, Donna Ditch.

Arnold was a grain and livestock farmer in the Center Point area for 37 years and he touched many lives with 28 years of driving a school bus to sporting events, fieldtrips and a route for Center Point-Urbana Community School. Arnold was always ready to lend a hand to family, friends and neighbors. He enjoyed fishing, sporting events and spending time with his family.

Our family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of the Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, Mercy Hospital ICU and Home Care Comfort for your loving care and support.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Alzheimer's Association.

With tender love and deep regret…We who love you will never forget.