Arne Lingren Lovendahl, 86, died peacefully Thursday, March 18, 2010, in Pinehurst.
Arne was born July 15, 1923, in Chicago, Ill., to the late Sven Otto and Ethel Lingren Lovendahl. He was an Evans Golf Caddie Scholar at Northwestern University, where he graduated in 1949 with a degree in mechanical engineering. After college, Arne served in the Marine Corps and achieved the rank of first lieutenant.
He married Nanette Marie Lupe on April 15, 1949. Arne worked as a sales representative for Niagra Electric Sales Co. in Rochester, N.Y., and later became co-owner. During their 57 years of marriage, they lived in Illinois, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York, before retiring to Pinehurst in 1992.
Arne was an accomplished athlete in hockey, baseball, and golf. It was his love of golf that led him to Pinehurst. Arne enjoyed playing golf daily and watching the golfers in his backyard. He was a devoted husband, father, brother and grandfather, great-grandfather and coach. He will be remembered for his good nature and friendly smile. Arne believed strongly in giving back to his community. He was a volunteer in the public schools, a mentor and a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity. He will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
Arne was preceded in death by his wife, Nanette. He is survived by his brother, Robert Lovendahl, of Wenatchee, Wash.; his son, Erik Lovendahl and wife, Kimberly, of Coburg, Ore.; his daughter, Lyn Lovendahl Langmaid and husband, Steve, of Livonia, N.Y., and his son, Anders Lovendahl and his wife .Catherine. of Pinehurst. He leaves behind five grandchildren: Alexis, Jane, Keaton, Anders and Olivia; and one great grandson, London.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity at www.habitat.org or 2268 N.C. 5, Aberdeen, NC 28315.
Boles Funeral Home of Pinehurst is serving the family.
Friends are invited to gather at the Lovendahl home at 45 Pine Valley Road in Pinehurst from 6 to 8 p.m on Sunday, March 21.