Sunday, February 17th, 1929 - Wednesday, December 2nd, 2020
Arlo Maxey was born on a farm just east of Enid to Albert and Nellie Maxey, where he grew up with his three sisters and brother and a farming neighborhood of relatives. He graduated from Garber High School, class of 1947. Arlo was in the band, participated as an FFA member, attended the Pleasant Vale Christian Church and was one of the best roller skaters around.
After graduating high school, he was employed by H.E. Cummins and Sons Construction Company of Enid until being drafted into the United States Army, at the age of 24. Arlo saw combat duty at the front with the 3rd Armored Division for over a year in the Korean War and upon completion of his overseas service, returned to the United States on the USS Walker troopship, spent the night at Camp Stoneman, California then flew to Fort Chaffee, Arkansas for discharge. He completed his military service with the Oklahoma National Guard, honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant First Class.
In 1953, Arlo returned to Cummins Construction Company to begin a lengthy, proud and enjoyable career with the asphalt paving company. There he loved the work, the men and the numerous facets of road construction in which it was engaged. He helped build a large number of roads and major highways throughout Oklahoma during his career with Cummins, retiring in 1989 as part owner and general manager. He held several positions with the Asphalt Paving Association.
There was nothing he could not fix, build, repair or figure out how to make better. Regardless of the challenge he loved to get his tools, saws, rulers or equipment and get started. He and his longtime friend Charlie Lavicky could tackle any mechanical job and make the equipment better than it ever was before they started. His son figured he had saved a small fortune because his Dad could not wait to repair whatever was broken at his house or on his car.
Arlo married Iola Ruth Loudenslager on October 1, 1950. They had two sons, Gary and Mike, and were married for 70 years.
His family and being Grandpa were his greatest enjoyments throughout life. Wheel of Fortune, family reunions, children and grandchildren sports and activities, trips with his wife, holiday gatherings and just getting excited when a family member or friend dropped in for a chat made his day. Sometimes a tear came when the visit ended.
He was a good man who will be missed by all. He always had a smile, would lend a helping hand to whomever needed i and was the one to go to for good advice.
Arlo is survived by his wife Ruth; two sons, Mike of Enid, Gary and wife Debbie of Enid; four grandchildren, Garret Maxey, wife Madison and great -granddaughter Lila of Tulsa; Morgan Maxey of Oklahoma City, Kelsi Lutz and spouse Jon Peetom and great- grandsons Hudson and Heston of Vinita and Tabitha Hurlbutt and husband Blake, and great-grandchildren Hensley and Hunter of Oklahoma City; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters and one brother.
Due to Covid-19, a private family graveside service will be held for Arlo at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Enid. A celebration of Life will be safely held at a later time for his many friends and family. Services are under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home. Those wishing to, may visit the funeral home to pay their respects and sign the guest book Monday, December 7, 2020 from 8am-9pm. Condolences to the family can be made at ladusauevans.com.
Memorial contributions in Arlo’s name can be made to the Hospice Circle of Love, with Ladusau-Evans serving as custodian of the funds.
Condolences may be made to the family online at www.LadusauEvans.com. Ladusau-Evans has been serving the families of the Enid Community and surrounding areas for over 40 years with compassionate service and dedication. They provide families with an open door policy. Feel free to contact them 24 hours a day. Visitation Hours: 8:00 am – 9:00 pm daily, 2800 N. Van Buren, Enid, OK 73703. Call: (580) 233-1400.
Obituaries are posted, in part, due to the generosity of The Commons.
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