Speich, Arland Keith

Arland Keith Speich, 77, of Marion, died Monday, March 25, 2013, at St. Luke's Hospital. Funeral Services: 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 2, at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Marion by Pastor Steve Qualben. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Marion. Graveside Service: 2 p.m. Tuesday at Jordan's Grove Cemetery in rural Central City.

Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Marva; a son, David (Kim) Speich of Marion; three stepchildren, Wayne Dirks (Kathy Ross) of Central City, Steven Dirks of Cedar Rapids and Donna (Clarke) Seeley of Marion; special family friend, Deb Nicholas of Marion; twin brother, Norman (Della) Speich of Hampton; brother, Robert (Karen) Speich of Algona; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, three sisters and a nephew.

Arland was born Nov. 5, 1935, the son of Antone and Ellen (Johnson) Speich in Humboldt County, Iowa. He graduated from Ottosen High School. On June 19, 1971, he married Marva (Andrews) Dirks in Anamosa. Arland worked for United Fire and Casualty for over 25 years, retiring in 2000.

Arland was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Mended Hearts (National and Local), United Fire and Casualty Retirees and two camping clubs. He enjoyed gardening, camping and time spent in the outdoors.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to the family.

Please sign the online guest book for Arland at under obituaries.

Published in The Gazette March 27, 2013.