Charles “Chuck” Nicholas Maranell

Charles “Chuck” Nicholas Maranell, age 94, of Mena, Arkansas, died Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at the CHI St. Vincent Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born on Saturday, September 14, 1929, to Jesse Franklin and Lois Mildred Lorenson Maranell in Primghar, Iowa.

Chuck was an extremely hard and faithful worker. He farmed with his father as soon as he could reach the pedals on the tractor. He was talented at anything he put his mind to and did many different jobs and activities. At one time he was a boxer, raised cattle, worked construction, and even harvested ice in Iowa from freshwater lakes. He also worked in sales, printing, trucking, lawn care, and was the lead singer of the band, Rhythm Tones, a regional favorite in Northwest Iowa.

Chuck lived a life filled with strength, determination, and an indomitable spirit. Chuck will be fondly remembered for his sense of ethics, unwavering stubbornness, and the strong moral code he instilled in those around him.

Chuck was an active and respected member of his community. He attended the St. Agnes Catholic Church and was a frequent attendee at The Elks Lodge. He made many friends and lasting bonds within these circles and will be sorely missed.

Chuck had a vibrant personality that showed through his diverse interests. He had a deep love for older country western music, with artists like Johnny Cash and Hank Williams often played in his home. He was also a fan of football, boxing, golf, and auto racing.

Chuck had a great love for the outdoors and was always up for an adventure. He found pleasure in driving around the area to explore, hunting for interesting rocks, and maintaining his property. He had a special fondness for the Black Hills and Las Vegas and had fond memories of vacationing in Mena before he moved there.

He cherished the times spent over coffee and drinks with friends at Elmer and Gibs back in Iowa. Chuck was known to always keep to his routine, which brought a sense of comfort and familiarity in his day-to-day life.

Throughout his life, Chuck was passionate about causes that were close to his heart. He actively supported St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and Boys Town in Omaha, Nebraska. His resolve to contribute to these causes spoke volumes about his compassionate and caring nature.

Chuck’s greatest accomplishment and pride was his family. His children and grandchildren were his greatest treasures. He showed them the meaning of living a principled life and his legacy will live on through them.

As we mourn the loss of Chuck, we will also celebrate his full and meaningful life. He was a beacon of strength and morality, and his memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to know him. He will be greatly missed, but his lessons and love will continue to guide those who knew him.

Chuck is preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Richard Maranell.

Chuck is survived by his wife of 73 years, Jean Maranell of Mena; two sons and daughters-in-law, Nicholas and Jody Maranell of Estherville, Iowa, and Jim and Nikki Maranell of Farmer’s Branch, Texas; one daughter and son-in-law, Vicki and Robert Brevik of Arnolds Park, Iowa; one sister and brother-in-law, Diane and Dan Brumley of Harris, Iowa; seven grandchildren, Gabriel Maranell, Jennifer Perkins, Shane Brevik, Shoni Brevik, Shilo Brevik, Jess Maranell, and Brogan Stiefer; seven great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Monday, November 6, 2023, at 11:00 AM at the St. Agnes Catholic Church in Mena, Arkansas, with Father Joseph Shantiraj as celebrant. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com

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