Morarie, Arnold 'Arnie' Romond

Arnold “Arnie” Romond Morarie, 57, of Quasqueton, passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, June 2, 2013, following a long illness.

He was born June 27, 1955, in Oelwein, the son of Glenn Thomas and Jean Marie (Belden) Morarie.

He is survived by his partner/wife/best friend, Debi Jacque; his father, Glenn of Cedar Rapids; his children, Nate (wife Rachel, children Blake and Abby) of Vinton, Andy and Rose of Cedar Rapids; brothers, Rick (Julie) of Olin, Richard of Waubeek, Steve (Gail) of Central City and Randy (Debbie) of Ashville, N.C.; sister-in-law, Julie; numerous nieces and nephews; special friends, Bob and Mary Thomas of Quasqueton; and his former wife, Jana Long of Cedar Rapids.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Jean; and brothers, Michael and Mark.

Arnie worked in various occupations during his life, the most satisfying were those that let him be in nature and make a difference in the environment. He thoroughly enjoyed renovating their cabin, cutting wood, tending to their acres of trees and their vast gardens. He loved physical labor but was also artistic and creative. He was a master at recycling and reusing with a particular talent for repurposing items with a flair unique to him. His motto was “make it work.” And he did!

Debi was the love of Arnie's life. He treasured his life with her and their cats. He loved the times spent with his children and grandchildren. He was especially thankful for the constant support of dear friend, Joyce Jeanblanc and for the friendship with his neighbor Bob. He was a quiet, peaceful man who found great pleasure in simple things.

Arnie will be cremated. ArnieFest, a picnic gathering, will be held at the Woodpecker Lodge in Pinicon Ridge Park, Central City, Iowa, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 20. Memory sharing at noon.

For more information or to leave an online condolence please go to under obituaries.

Published in The Gazette June 5, 2013.