Arlen Cornell Blessum

March 30, 1934-Aug. 27, 2026

Rugby

Arlen Cornell Blessum was born at Good Samaritan Hospital in Rugby on March 30, 1934 to Casper and Helen (Cornell) Blessum. He died at his home at the age of 92, with his family nearby on Thursday, August 27, 2026.

Arlen lived all his life on the farm that was homesteaded in 1902 by his grandparents, Hans and Bessie (Berg) Blessum, who immigrated from Norway. He attended grade school at Fero School in Meyer Township and graduated from Rugby High School in 1952. In high school, Arlen played basketball and was active in FFA, showing cattle. He was named State FFA Farmer in 1951.

On December 26, 1956, Arlen married Charlotte Bickler at Little Flower Catholic Church in Rugby. Arlen and Charlotte raised six children together on their family farm.

Arlen was actively involved on the Rugby elevator board, Center Mutual board and FFA advisory board. He was a 4H leader, member of the Knights of Columbus and taught CCD for many years. He was ordained to the diaconate in 2003 and served as a deacon at Little Flower Parish for many years to follow.

When he wasn’t farming, Arlen enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He loved playing games, watching and playing sports, collecting antiques and rocks, and driving his John Deere gator with Charlotte beside him. He loved playing pinochle and spending time with the many family members who frequently stopped at the farm.

Arlen is survived by his wife, Charlotte of 69 years; children, Brian (Sue) of Rugby, Jody (Colette) of Danville, California, Jim (Kris) of Rugby, Laura (Mike) Swanson of Rugby, Stuart of Rugby and Alan (Karleen) of Rugby; 24 grandchildren; 39 great grandchildren; sisters, Marlys (Harold) Ostrem, Diane (Herb) Mittelstedt and Lois Smutzler; nieces, nephews; other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Beverly and brother-in-law Ben Bakkum; brother-in-law, Lee Smutzler and his parents.

Arlen will be remembered for his quick wit, his passion for being a good steward of the land, being a man of strong faith and loving his ever expanding family.

The family prefers all memorials to go to Little Flower School in Rugby.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 4th at St. Therese Little Flower Church in Rugby with burial in the church cemetery.

Organist: Angie Deplazes

Vocal leader/Cantor: Sara Selensky

Presentation of Gifts: Arlen’s Granddaughters

Casket Bearers: Nathan Blessum, Jacob Blessum, Kevin Blessum, Jay Swanson, Jon Swanson, Thomas Swanson and Jack Swanson.

Published by The Pierce County Tribune, September 5, 2026.