Wilfred (Bill) Arola, 88, of Crawfordsville, passed away Saturday May 15, 2021 at the Hospice House in Sebring, FL surrounded by his family. He went to be with his Lord and Savior after months of battered illness.

He was born Dec. 22, 1932 in Walker Minnesota to the late John and Amelia Arola.

He graduated from Walker High School in 1950 where he played football and worked as a fishing guide. After graduation he moved to Crawfordsville and began a career of 40 years at RR Donnelley's . He was drafted into the US Army in 1953 where he served during the Korean War as a drill instructor at Ft Leonard, MO. He finished his service as a Sargent  in the National Guard.  Later in life he was invited to participate in the Honor Flight to Washington DC.

In 1953 he married Sharleen Eyler, the love of his life. Together they owned and operated Uncle Smiley's restaurant for 30 years..

His memberships included Christ Lutheran Church, American Legion, Eagles and Woodworkers.  He was an avid fisherman, hunter, woodworker, gardener and story teller who loved  helping others and spending time with family. He never met a stranger.

Bill is survived by his wife Sharleen, son Gary and daughter Cheri, 2 grandchildren, Nathan and Morgan and 3 great grandchildren.

He was proceeded  in death by his parents, brother Leon Arola, and sisters Alice Merrill, Lorraine Rodekuhr, and Shirley Heathman.

Services for Mr. Arola will be held Sat May22 at Hunt and Sons Funeral Home, Crawfordsville. Visitation will be from 12pm-2pm with funeral service at 2pm.